POSTED: 04/11/17, 4:33 PM EDT | UPDATED: 11 HRS AGO 0 COMMENTS
The Madison County Emergency Management Office is reminding Madison County Citizens that the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Open Burn Ban is currently in effect and has been extended by Governor Andrew Cuomo until May 21 this year.
If residents ignore the ban and their fire is reported, they will be subject to the initial minimum fine of $500.00.
According to the New York State Department of Conservation, open fires are any outdoor fire in which smoke is emitted directly into the air, including burning in barrels. Even when the spring burn ban is not in effect, some areas are still prohibited to burn. Call your local fire department for local burning laws and check for fire dangers in your area.
As per the DEC, exceptions to state laws include:
•A small wildfire
•Outdoor cooking devices when used to cook food
•Small cooking or camp fires using untreated wood or charcoal
•Ceremonial or celebratory bonfires, where permitted
•Small fires used to dispose of a flag or religious item or for a religious ceremony, where permitted
Check out the full article from the ONEIDA DISPATCH..good coverage of Madison Co.
http://www.oneidadispatch.com/general-news/20170411/dec-burn-ban-extended-to-may-21
