🔥 Statewide Burn Ban in Effect – October 2 to October 15

Governor Kathy Hochul, in coordination with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), has issued a statewide burn ban effective October 2 through October 15, due to increased fire risk and ongoing dry conditions.
The ban will be re-evaluated prior to expiration and may be extended if conditions remain dry.

New Yorkers can help protect homes, communities, and first responders by complying with the prohibition on most outdoor fires and conserving water whenever possible.

🚫 What the Burn Ban Means

The burn ban prohibits:

• Outdoor fires used for brush or debris disposal

• All uncontained fires, including most campfires

• Open fires used for cooking (unless contained)

The following are still permitted:

• Small backyard fire pits and contained campfires less than 3 feet in height and 4 feet in diameter

• Small cooking fires that are fully contained

Remember:
Burning garbage or leaves is illegal year-round in New York State.
Some municipalities also have their own local burn bans currently in effect.

🧯 Fire Danger Levels Across New York State

According to the New York State DEC, many regions are under High Fire Danger, meaning:

All fine, dead fuels ignite readily and fires start easily from most causes — including unattended brush and campfires.

High Fire Danger Areas include:

• Southern Tier FDRA

• Lake Ontario Plains FDRA

• St. Lawrence FDRA

• Adirondack FDRA

• Adirondack High Peaks FDRA

• Upper Hudson/Champlain FDRA

Moderate Fire Danger remains in other areas, including Montgomery County (Leatherstocking FDRA), meaning:

Fires can start from most accidental causes, but the number of starts and intensity are typically lower.

📍 Village of Fonda is located within the Leatherstocking FDRA, currently under a Moderate Fire Danger rating.

🌬️ Why the Ban Is Needed

• Prolonged dry spell across much of New York State

• Gusty winds and low humidity increase fire spread risk

• 64 wildland fires have been reported since August statewide

• Even small fires can quickly become serious under current conditions

DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton emphasized:

“New Yorkers can help keep our firefighters and communities safe by preventing fires in the first place.”

🔗 Stay Informed

• Current fire danger map: on.ny.gov/firedangermap

• Report wildfires: 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264)

For more information, visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation at dec.ny.gov.

Village of Fonda, NY 12068 reminds all residents and visitors:
🔥 Please do not burn during this temporary statewide ban.
💧 Continue conserving water.
🚒 Help protect your neighbors, homes, and first responders.