ALBANY, NY (October 3, 2025) — Governor Kathy Hochul, in collaboration with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, announced a statewide burn ban effective October 2, 2025, to address heightened fire risks due to ongoing dry conditions. The ban, set to last until October 15, 2025, will be reevaluated before expiration.
The prohibition targets most outdoor fires, including those for brush and debris disposal, uncontained campfires, and open cooking fires. Exceptions include backyard fire pits and contained campfires under three feet in height and four feet in diameter, as well as small, contained cooking fires. Burning garbage or leaves remains prohibited year-round statewide, with several municipalities already enforcing local burn bans.
“The ongoing nice weather is great for watching fall foliage or gathering with friends, but it also presents a higher risk for fires that put homes, businesses and our brave first responders at risk,” Hochul said. “Many regions are already in a drought watch or warning due to the dry conditions, and with the fire risk rising in some parts of the state, it is important to keep everyone safe by implementing this temporary burn ban.”
The state is grappling with a “High” fire danger rating in the Southern Tier, Lake Ontario Plains, St. Lawrence, Adirondack, High Peaks, and Upper Hudson Champlain regions, driven by gusty winds, low humidity, and a prolonged dry spell. Other areas face a “Moderate” fire danger, where fires can start from most accidental causes. Since August, New York Forest Rangers have responded to 64 wildland fires, which can escalate quickly if not addressed early.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton emphasized the role of prevention: “New York State is fortunate to have some of the most qualified wildland firefighters in the country protecting our forests and communities. New Yorkers can help keep them and our resources safe by working to prevent fires in the first place.”
Hochul also welcomed the return of 14 wildland firefighters from two-week deployments in Idaho, Montana, and Washington. A 10-person crew from DEC’s Division of Lands and Forests and Forest Rangers fought the East and Mire fires in Idaho’s Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. Additional rangers assisted with the Rattlesnake fire in Inchelium, Washington, and fires near Helena, Montana.
Amid the fire risk, a drought warning affects 12 counties in the Adirondack and Southern Tier regions, with a drought watch in place for most of the state, excluding New York City and Westchester County. Residents are urged to conserve water to support firefighting efforts and maintain supplies. Suggested measures include watering lawns only when necessary, reusing water from rain barrels or dehumidifiers, fixing leaks, and reducing shower times.
Drought conditions are also straining aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, with reduced stream flows threatening aquatic life and decreased precipitation impacting plant growth. These conditions may contribute to Harmful Algae Blooms, exacerbated by warm, sunny weather.
For private well owners, the state recommends monitoring water supplies, consulting registered well contractors, and considering storage tanks or well deepening. Farmers are advised to coordinate with county emergency management and Soil and Water Conservation Districts for support.
Fire departments are encouraged to ensure adequate water supplies and functional dry hydrants. Additional resources are available through the DEC’s Water Use & Conservation webpage and the Know Your NY Water website.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.