← New York burn ban rules›Open Burning Rules
New York Open Burning Rules (2026)
Restricted: Burning trash/leaves is illegal year-round.
Burning trash/leaves is illegal year-round. Brush burning is banned statewide each year March 16-May 14. Outside that window, on-site brush burning is allowed only in towns under 20,000 residents (permit required in Adirondack/Catskill 'fire towns').
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Open Burning Rules in states bordering New York
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- ConnecticutRestricted
Open burning of brush (shrubs/prunings ≤3 in.) requires a valid signed permit from your local Open Burning Official. Prohibited when the Forest Fire Danger Index is High, Very High, or Extreme, or when AQI is forecast 100+.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: portal.ct.gov · Full Connecticut rule →
- MassachusettsConditional
Open burning of brush/forestry/agricultural debris is allowed only during the defined season Jan 15-May 1, 10am-4pm, with a permit from your LOCAL fire department, 75ft from dwellings, on days MassDEP rules air quality acceptable. Banned year-round in 22 cities/towns.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: mass.gov · Full Massachusetts rule →
- New JerseyRestricted
Any fire in or adjacent to forest with wildfire potential is prohibited without a permit from the NJ Forest Fire Service. A written permit is required in municipalities with firewardens. Burning rubbish, leaves, garbage or structures is prohibited; fines up to $5,000.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dep.nj.gov · Full New Jersey rule →
- PennsylvaniaConditional
Open burning of debris is regulated locally; counties and the Governor can impose burn bans (county bans last up to 30 days, extendable). Propane/gas stoves, charcoal grills, and tobacco are exempt from county bans. Confirm with local authorities first.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: pa.gov · Full Pennsylvania rule →
- VermontRestricted
Open burning in every Vermont town requires a Permit to Kindle Fire from the local Town Forest Fire Warden (10 V.S.A. 2645), issued only when fuel and weather conditions are safe. Only natural materials like limbs and branches may be burned — never trash, plastics, or treated wood.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: fpr.vermont.gov · Full Vermont rule →
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