In response to the wildfires that have spread throughout New York state — including Prospect Park and Inwood Hill Park in NYC — and throughout New Jersey, New York State has issued a burn ban until Saturday, November 30th.
Since the Jennings Creek/Sterling State Park Fire spread to 5,000+ acres, the largest wildfire to hit New York since 2008, it was time to take precaution.
“I’m incredibly grateful to the first responders and those on the frontlines that are working around the clock to stop the spread of these fires to protect their fellow New Yorkers,” Governor Kathy Hochul said in a statement. “As we experience drought conditions and an increased fire risk across the State, now is not the right time to be burning outdoors, and I urge everyone to heed our warnings as we continue to take the necessary precautions to keep all New Yorkers safe.”
What are the NY state burn ban rules?
While under a burn ban, New York residents are not permitted to burn a fire in public spaces. This includes uncontained campfires and open fires used for cooking.
What is allowed under the NY state burn ban?
According to Governor Hochul’s office, there are certain fires permitted: “Backyard fire pits and contained campfires less than three feet in height and four feet in length, width, or diameter are allowed, as are small, contained cooking fires.”
Now that NYC finally received rain mid-week after its fire scares and its first drought warning in over 20 years, let’s hope the precipitation thwarted the effects of this unseasonably dry several weeks.
Should you experience a fire emergency, call 9-1-1, or contact the New York State Forest Ranger Emergency line at 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264). Learn more at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.