New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has again instituted a BURN BAN for all of New York State from March 16 through May 14.

This means no open brush burning or any burning other than backyard fire pits and campfires (less than three feet in height and four feet in length, width, or diameter) or small cooking fires. Burning garbage or leaves is NEVER permitted in New York State. Only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated, or unpainted wood can be burned. People should never leave these fires unattended and must extinguish them.

Since the burn ban began in New York State, spring fires are decreasing, but open burning remains the leading cause of spring wildfires in the state, according to the DEC. There is an increased risk this year due to mild winter conditions leaving vegetation exposed.

Here’s the entire DEC press release.