Oswego County Fire Coordinator Shane Laws reminds county residents that the annual New York State burn ban on all open burning began on Saturday, March 16. It will remain in effect through Tuesday, May 14.

“Spring has arrived, and with it comes an increased risk of brush fires,” said Fire Coordinator Laws. “The abundance of available fuels such as dry grass and leaves, warmer temperatures and wind, and the lack of green vegetation all create a higher risk of fire incidents. 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 is prohibited in New York State, with some exceptions, from May 15 through March 15 of the following year.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) provides the following guidance on those exceptions:

• Campfires or other outdoor fires less than 3 feet in height and 4 feet in length, width or diameter are allowed.
• Small cooking fires are allowed.
• Ceremonial or celebratory bonfires are allowed.
• Disposal of flags or religious items in a small-sized fire is allowed, if 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.

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

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.

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