Oswego County Fire Coordinator Shane Laws reminds county residents that the annual New York State burn ban begins on Saturday, March 16 and runs through Tuesday, May 14.

“We’ve had a very mild winter and spring is just around the corner,” said Laws. “This means we’re at an increased risk of brush fires due to the abundance of dry grass and leaves, the lack of green vegetation and warmer temperatures and wind.”

Open burning is prohibited in New York State, with some exceptions, outside of the burn ban as well. 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).