Environment DEC
From the November 2009 issue
New Regulation on Open Burning in Effect
Burning of leaves is no longer allowed in New York State.
Taking a step to reduce harmful air pollutants and help prevent wildfires, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) extended restrictions on the open burning of residential waste effective October 14. The open burning of residential waste is now prohibited in all communities statewide, regardless of population, with exceptions for burning tree limbs and branches at limited times and other specific circumstances.
Once considered harmless, open burning releases significant amounts of dangerous chemicals into the air. A study by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, in conjunction with DEC and the New York State Department of Health, found that emissions of dioxins and furans from backyard burning alone were greater than those from all other sources combined for the years 2002-04. Trash containing plastics, polystyrene, pressure-treated and painted wood and bleached or colored papers releases harmful chemicals when burned. The study found that burning trash emits arsenic, carbon monoxide, benzene, styrene, formaldehyde, lead, dioxin, hydrogen cyanide and particulate matter, among other substances.
In addition to releasing pollutants, open burning is the largest single cause of wildfires in New York State. Data from DEC's Forest Protection Division show that debris burning accounted for about 40 percent of wildfires between 1986 and 2006-more than twice the next most-cited source.
On-site burning of agricultural waste is allowed, with certain restrictions.
Towns totally or partially within the boundaries of the Adirondack and Catskill parks are designated "fire towns" under Environmental Conservation Law. The law prohibits open burning in these towns without a written permit from DEC. On-site open burning of limbs and branches allowed under the new regulation still requires a permit if it occurs in a fire town. To find out whether your town is a fire town and/or to obtain a permit, contact your local DEC forest ranger. A list of rangers and their phone numbers may be obtained or by calling 518-897-1300.
To report violations of environmental laws, call 1-800-TIPPDEC or 1-800-847-7332.
A complete outline of common questions and answers on the new regulation is available on DEC's website.
