New York State Burn Ban: March 16 – May 14

Each spring, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) enforces a statewide burn ban to reduce the risk of wildfires. During this time:

• All open burning of brush and yard debris is prohibited
• Small, controlled cooking or campfires are still allowed (see below)
• Violations may result in fines or enforcement actions

Even after the ban is lifted, local restrictions remain in place.

Wilton’s Outdoor Burning Rules (Year-Round)

The Town of Wilton enforces its own burn regulations through Chapter 49: Outdoor Burning, which includes the following:

• Fires must be on properties of 2 acres or more
• Fires must be kept at least 100 feet from all property lines
• Fires must be attended at all times by an adult
• No burning on Memorial Day, July 4th, or Labor Day

Burning of garbage, treated wood, leaves, pine needles, and plastic is strictly prohibited.

What Is Allowed

You may have a small campfire or cooking fire if:

• It is less than 3 feet high and 4 feet wide
• You burn only clean, untreated wood
• It’s kept well-contained and supervised at all times

Do I Need a Burn Permit?

Yes—a permit is required for:

• Brush burning (outside the burn ban period)
• Larger fires on qualifying properties

Permits can be obtained through the Wilton Fire Marshal’s Office. You must call the Saratoga County Office of Fire Control at 518-885-5522 both before and after burning to notify officials.

Play It Safe

If conditions are dry, windy, or unpredictable, don’t burn. Even legal fires can spread quickly. You are responsible for any damage caused by a fire on your property.

Questions?

For more information or to request a permit, contact the Town of Wilton Building Department or reach out to the Wilton Fire Department for general fire safety advice.

Want to learn how to keep your home safe year-round? Read our full Fire Safety Tips Guide »