Statewide Burn Ban Begins March 16

by Contributor | March 15, 2026 9:34 am

OSWEGO COUNTY – Oswego County Fire Coordinator Shane Laws reminds residents that the annual New York State burn ban begins on Monday, March 16 and runs through Thursday, May 14.

“The spring season brings increased risk of brush fires due to drought conditions, dry vegetation, warmer temperatures, low humidity and high winds,” said Laws. “Open burning of debris is the largest cause of spring wildfires in New York, so it’s essential that people follow the burn ban.”

Open burning, or any fire not contained in an enclosed pit, is generally prohibited in New York State year-round; however, there are some allowable exceptions outside of the burn ban.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) provides the following guidance on exceptions allowed from May 15 through March 15 of the following year:

• Campfires or other outdoor fires less than 3 feet in height and 4 feet in width/diameter
• Small cooking fires
• Ceremonial or celebratory bonfires
• Disposal of flags or religious items in a small-sized fire, as long as it is not otherwise prohibited by local law or regulation
• Only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated or unpainted wood can be burned
• Fires cannot be left unattended, must have a water supply available and must be fully extinguished when done

In towns with a total population of less than 20,000, tree limbs with attached leaves (also referred to as brush) may be burned; however, the limbs must be less than 6 inches in diameter and 8 feet in length. Burning loose leaves or leaf piles is always illegal, according to NYSDEC. (https://www.dec.ny.gov/public/46613.html[1])

Fire Coordinator Laws encourages residents to check with their local authorities to find out if local law requires a permit for open fires.

Violators of state open burning regulations are subject to both criminal and civil enforcement actions, with a minimum fine of $500 for a first offense.

For more information about open burning regulations, go to the NYSDEC website at https://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/32060.html[2].

To report open burning and other environmental law violations call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264).

Source URL: https://oswegocountytoday.com/community/announcements/statewide-burn-ban-begins-march-16-3/

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