SULLIVAN COUNTY  — New York State’s ban on open burning went into effect on Sunday, March 16 and lasts until May 14. In a video press release from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Forest Ranger John Gullen said, “every year there are hundreds of wildfires across New York State. These fires are more likely to spread in windy conditions and the single largest cause of these Spring wildfires is open burning of brush and debris.” 

Gullen said backyard fire pits, small cooking fires, and small campfires (less than 3 feet high and less than 4 feet wide) are permitted as long as they are not left unattended or burning trash.

New York State DEC Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton urged residents to comply with the ban in a press release on March 14: “Prevention is best, and after a dry and windy winter season, DEC is encouraging New Yorkers to protect themselves and their communities by complying with the State’s two-month burn ban. In addition to protecting land and structures, the burn ban keeps DEC Forest Rangers and other firefighters safe and ready to respond to emergencies.” 

Sullivan County Fire Coordinator John Hauschild explained the dangers in a press release on March 17: “Snow and ice are still around, but vegetation is really dry and easily set aflame by sparks and ash. I’m urging everyone to avoid open burning and the consequences that can come with it: callouts of local fire departments, damage to plants and properties, and injuries- even death. Even if you start a fire accidentally, you can be held legally liable for the consequences.”

Sullivan County Communications Director Dan Hust explained why Spring is an especially dangerous time for wildfires: “the vegetation is dry, and even though greenery is starting to show on our landscape, these plants are not fully hydrated. During the winter season, plants go into a dormant mode or they die, leaving them without adequate water. Even though the snow is starting to melt, that water is just starting to reach the [root system], so they are still relatively dry.” 

Hust said, “We can’t count on the rain” to properly hydrate the landscape. He said this time of year is ripe for gusty winds, so the combination of dry vegetation in our landscapes and windy conditions makes it “especially dangerous” for wildfires. Hust reported there were 128 brush fires in 2024 alone.

Prohibited burning includes

burning refuse, trash, tires, and other solid wastes

burning loose leaves or leaf piles

burning pressure or chemically treated wood, or painted or stained wood, or composite wood such as plywood and particle board

burning large piles of brush collected from local residents at town or county transfer sites

According to the DEC’s 3/14 press release, Forest Rangers, DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs), and local authorities enforce the burn ban. Violators of the ban are subject to criminal and civil enforcement actions, with a minimum fine of $500 for the first offense. If you see open burning, you can contact local law enforcement (Sullivan County Sheriff ‘s Office, 845-794-7100) or 911.