With winter's snows receding, a reminder that the burn ban across New York State has begun.

While the warmer weather brings about the urge to take care of those brushes and leaves that may still be on your lawn, New York would like to remind you that you cannot openly burn these.

The annual burn ban has begun.  Since 2009, this prohibition has reduced wildfires by 42% across the state.  The burn ban prohibits open burning of brush, yard waste, construction debris or leaves.  This is in addition to the year-round prohibition of burning garbage or trash.

The burn ban does have some exceptions, like recreational cooking fires, celebratory or ceremonial bonfires.  Small campfires are also permitted, as long as these fires are extinguished fully, and are under 3 feet high and 4 feet wide.  

The end of winter brings dry grass and leaves combined with a higher pressure gradient that brings stronger winds.   

The burn ban lasts until May 14th, however weather conditions can prompt the extension of this if weather proves to be dry through the early Spring.