Annual spring burn ban in NY State to start, aimed at preventing wildfires

The annual spring "burn ban" that prohibits many forms of outdoor burns to prevent wildfires will start on Monday and run through May 14, New York State announced.

Campfires, small cooking fires and other outdoor fires less than 3 feet tall and 4 feet in diameter are allowed, although the official New York Department of Environmental Conservation website says residents must adhere to posted guidelines available through the site. Ceremonial and celebratory bonfires, including the disposal of flags and religious items not otherwise prohibited by law also are allowed.

The ban prohibits burning brush during the ban dates. Officials are reminding residents they are never allowed to burn trash, tires, loose leaves, piled leaves, solid waste, and chemically treated, painted or stained wood or composites, such as plywood and particle board.

Open fires on agricultural land are not subject to the ban, but come with their own restrictions as detailed by the DEC.

The state website notes so-called burn barrels are "a very dirty way to dispose of trash" because they produce pollution. The year-round bans are meant to prevent what it describes as "serious health concerns and diseases," as well as the potential for contaminated soil.

The site also provides guidelines for campfire safety.

In a video posted to the website, a state forest ranger explains that every year state officials report hundreds of wildfires and notes: "These fires are more likely to spread in windy conditions," while the single largest cause of these fires is the open burning of brush and debris.

"Backyard fire pits, small cooking fires and campfires are still OK," the ranger says, "But they can never be left unattended."

By John Valenti

john.valenti@newsday.com

John Valenti, a Newsday reporter since 1981, has been honored nationally by the Associated Press, Society of the Silurians and National Headliner Awards for investigative, enterprise and breaking news reporting, as well as column writing. He is the author of “Swee'pea,” about New York playground basketball star Lloyd Daniels. His debut crime novel, “For Nothing Is Hidden,” rooted in 1950s Long Island, was released in October 2025.