New York's Annual Burn Ban Begins March 16

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New York's annual burn ban will go into effect on March 16, 2026 and continue through May 14, 2026. The ban aims to reduce the risk of wildfires by restricting open burning during the dry spring months when vegetation is dormant and debris-burning is common. Certain types of open fires, such as campfires and grills, are still permitted, while the burning of refuse, trash, and large brush piles is prohibited.

Why it matters

New York instituted the annual burn ban in 2009, and since then, the state has seen a 40% reduction in wildfires. Open burning is the leading cause of fires in New York, so the ban is an important fire prevention measure, especially as climate change increases the risk of destructive wildfires.

The details

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation oversees the burn ban. Prohibited activities include burning refuse, trash, cardboard, tires, loose leaves, and composite or chemically-treated wood. Allowed activities include campfires, small cooking fires, firepits with fire guards, and the burning of clean, heat-treated firewood. Residents can report wildfires or illegal burning to the NYS forest rangers or local law enforcement.

• The New York State Burn Ban will begin on March 16, 2026.
• The burn ban will continue through May 14, 2026.