Burn Ban Now in Effect Statewide
COUNTY OF SULLIVAN
DIVISION OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Bureau of Fire
SULLIVAN COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER
100 NORTH STREET
PO BOX 5012
MONTICELLO, NY 12701
For Immediate Release:
March 17, 2025
Burn Ban Now in Effect Statewide
Monticello, NY – With the New York State Burn Ban currently in effect and running through May 15, Sullivan County Fire Coordinator John Hauschild is emphasizing the fact that open burning isn’t just illegal – it’s incredibly dangerous.
“Snow and ice are still around, but vegetation is really dry and easily set aflame by sparks and ash,” he explained. “I’m urging everyone to avoid open burning and the consequences that can come with it: callouts of local fire departments, damage to plants and properties, and injuries – even death. Even if you start a fire accidentally, you can be held legally liable for the consequences.”
According to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), open burning of debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in the State. For details on the burn ban, visit the DEC’s website at www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/32060.html.
This was just some of the damage caused by a brush fire in Westbrookville a few years ago, and local fire departments are bracing for numerous callouts, should residents not heed the current Statewide burn ban.
