Reduce the risk of wildland fires

Open burning is prohibited statewide in New York from March 16 - May 14, 2026, with only limited exceptions. 

Small recreational or cooking fires—such as campfires and backyard fire pits—are allowed if they are less than 3 feet high and 4 feet wide and burn only charcoal or clean, dry, untreated wood. 

Ceremonial or celebratory bonfires (including disposal of flags or religious items) are also permitted if they follow these size and material restrictions. 

In some smaller towns (population under 20,000), residents may burn downed tree limbs and brush generated on-site during most of the year.

However, residential brush burning is banned statewide from March 16 through May 14 because spring conditions create a high wildfire risk. Local governments may impose stricter rules or require permits.  

What's Prohibited

These acrtivities are prohibited: burning trash, garbage, leaves, tires, and other solid waste, as well as treated, painted, stained, or composite wood such as plywood or particle board. Burning household waste in burn barrels is illegal and harmful because these fires burn at low temperatures and release pollutants that can harm health and contaminate the environment. 

All permitted fires must be attended and fully extinguished when finished, and residents are encouraged to check local fire danger conditions and follow safe campfire practices to reduce the risk of wildfires.