The New York statewide burn ban takes effect on Sunday, March 16. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has enforced an annual brush burning ban since 2009. The annual ban goes into effect March 16 and lasts until May 14. The ban aims to prevent wildfires and protect communities during heightened fire risk periods. Call 9-1-1 in case of a fire emergency. You can also call NYS Park Rangers at 1-833-697-7264 to report a forest fire in a state park.