Smoke rises from Panther Mountain after wildfire outbreak. Photo: NYSDEC
The statewide burn ban went into effect today. From now until mid-May, it’s illegal to have an open brush fire at your property.
According to the state, burning brush is the largest cause of wildfires each spring.
“Many of us are looking forward to spring weather after a very cold winter, but with the warming temperatures comes increased fire risk,” Commissioner Lefton said.
“That’s why we’re once again asking all New Yorkers to abide by the two-month-long burn ban. The more careful you are with fire, the better we can protect our communities and natural resources as well as our Forest Rangers and firefighters across the state.”
The number of wildfires has dropped by more than 40% since the state started banning spring brush fires in 2009.
You are still allowed to have campfires this time of year, as long as they are less than three feet high and four feet wide. You can also have small cooking fires, but any outdoor fire must be attended to until it’s extinguished.
The burn ban is in effect in New York from now until May 14th.