Could Backyard Fires Be Banned In New York State?

As the weather has cooled a bit there is still one thing people love to do outdoors.

That is to sit on their patio with their outdoor fireplace or firepit and enjoy cool crisp Autumn evenings while sitting next to a fire.

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There has been a lot of talk about New York State creating new laws to limit or ban people from heating their homes using wood. Would that possible ban also cover outdoor fire pits?

Currently, there are no laws on the books that ban using wood in your outdoor fireplace or firepit but possible changes could be on the horizon if New York State continues to restrict what fuels people can use to heat their homes.

New York State is trying to limit the number of emissions that are put into the air and a ban on wood for heating could be on the debate floor.

As of today, open burns are prohibited in New york State except for a few expectations according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

• Camp fires or any other outdoor fires less than 3 feet in height and 4 feet in length, width or diameter are allowed.

• Small cooking fires are allowed.

• Ceremonial or celebratory bonfires are allowed. Disposal of flags or religious items in a small-sized fire is allowed, if it is not otherwise prohibited by law or regulation.

• Only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated or unpainted wood can be burned.

• Fires cannot be left unattended and must be fully extinguished.

So if you want to enjoy a nice backyard fire this weekend, just make sure that it is not bigger than 3 feet in height and 4 feet in length and you will be all good.