| New York State Burn Ban 2026
The New York State annual residential brush burning ban runs from March 16 to May 14, 2026, to reduce wildfire risk during early spring New York State Department of Environmental Conservation+1.
Purpose and Timing
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) enforces the ban to prevent wildfires when dry vegetation and debris from the previous fall create ideal conditions for fire spread New York State Department of Environmental Conservation+1. Open burning of brush and debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in the state New York State Department of Environmental Conservation+1.
Prohibited Activities
Year-round prohibitions: Burning trash, garbage, tires, loose leaves, cardboard, and any wood that is treated, painted, or chemically treated NEWS10 ABC+1.
During the ban (March 16–May 14):
No open burning of brush, branches, sticks, or other vegetation NEWS10 ABC.
No burning of organic agricultural waste on large farms/horticultural sites unless it can fully burn within 24 hours and is on-site NEWS10 ABC.
Permitted Activities
Small campfires or fire pits: Under 3 feet high and 4 feet in length/width/diameter, using only charcoal or clean, dry, untreated wood New York State Department of Environmental Conservation+1.
Small cooking fires: Allowed if they meet the same size and fuel requirements New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
Backyard burn barrels: Not recommended; they often don’t fully combust biomass and can produce soot NEWS10 ABC.
Enforcement
Violations can result in civil and criminal penalties, with first-time offenders facing at least a $500 fine NEWS10 ABC.
DEC maintains a Fire Danger Map online to show local conditions New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
Why It Matters
Since the ban’s start in 2009, New York has seen a 40% reduction in wildfires National Day Today. The measure also protects air quality, as wildfire smoke contains harmful particulate matter NEWS10 ABC.
Tip: Always check DEC’s Fire Danger Map before lighting any fire, and extinguish all fires completely before leaving. |
