Is Burning Leaves Illegal in New York State?

It is a magical time of year here in New York State as the leaves begin to change colors and fall from the trees! The coloring book of fall is wide open, and many parts of the Empire State are already seeing some vibrant autumn colors.

We are blessed to live in a state with so many wonderful natural resources, including an abundance of maple trees and other hardwoods. The colors of the maple leaves always impress me year after year, and this fall, they seem to be especially bright!

In the past, there have been years when the leaves were duller, even though the colors were still beautiful. But so far this year, from what I have seen, it looks like we are in for a spectacular fall foliage season. It is a great time to take a ride and enjoy the beautiful colors across New York State.

New York State Reminds Residents That Burning Leaves Is Illegal

If you are planning to remove leaves from your front yard, backyard, or around your place of business this fall, New York State is reminding residents that burning leaves is prohibited at all times.

"Prohibited items include: burning loose leaves or leaf piles"

In fact, New York State is pretty strict about the types of materials you can and cannot burn. We all know about the annual spring burn ban that takes place from March through May. However, throughout the year, there are other materials that are not allowed to be burned, including leaves.

How Do You Plan to Get Rid of Fall Leaves This Year?

How do you plan to get rid of the leaves around your yard this year?

Will you rake them to the side of the road and let the highway department pick them up and turn them into mulch? Do you leave them on the lawn, hoping they will be chopped up by the lawnmower and returned to the soil?

Or perhaps you plan to pile them up and let the kids jump in them before bagging them and putting them out by the road.

No matter what your plan is, fall is here, and it is a wonderful time to be in New York State.

New York State Residents Should Watch Out for Ticks in Leaf Piles

Another thing to consider this year if you make a leaf pile is ticks. I am not trying to be the guy who is always worried about things, but it is worth mentioning.

Ticks are still active throughout Western New York and other parts of New York State. If you have kids jumping into a pile of leaves, take a moment to check them afterward to make sure they are tick-free.

It is a simple precaution that can help keep your family safe while enjoying one of the best parts of autumn.

Enjoy the Beautiful Fall Colors Across New York State

One thing is for sure: We are blessed to have such natural beauty around us over the next couple of weeks.

Fingers crossed that the snow holds off and the leaves do not get squashed under the weight of an early snowfall so we can enjoy the colors a little longer!

If you plan on having some sort of campfire this fall, make sure you do so safely and follow all applicable fire regulations.

Enjoy the beauty that surrounds us here in New York State this autumn!