Outdoor Burning: Brighton vs Rochester
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Brighton, NY and Rochester, NY?
Brighton has fewer restrictions than Rochester.
Brighton, NY
Monroe County
Outdoor burning in Monroe County is regulated by Monroe County Sanitary Code Article V and NY State DEC Part 215. Burning trash and leaves is prohibited statewide. Small recreational fires with clean dry wood are generally allowed with conditions.
View full Brighton rules →Rochester, NY
Monroe County
Open burning is prohibited in Rochester under the fire prevention code and New York State regulations. Burning trash, yard waste, or debris within city limits is not permitted. The Rochester Fire Department enforces burn regulations.
View full Rochester rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Brighton | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| County authority | Monroe County Sanitary Code Article V | - |
| State authority | NY DEC 6 NYCRR Part 215 | - |
| Spring burn ban | March 15 – May 15 (statewide) | - |
| Prohibited materials | Trash, leaves, treated/painted wood — all banned | - |
| Recreational fire size | Under 3 ft high, 4 ft diameter | - |
| Bonfire permits | Required — 30 days advance notice to county | - |
| Fire curfew | No new material added after 10 PM | - |
| Open Burning | - | Prohibited within city limits |
| State Law | - | 6 NYCRR Part 215 — cities cannot burn |
| Yard Waste | - | City collection program required |
| Enforcement | - | Fire Department and NYS DEC |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Brighton FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Monroe County?
Outdoor burning in Monroe County is regulated by Monroe County Sanitary Code Article V and NY State DEC Part 215. Burning trash and leaves is prohibited statewide. Small recreational fires with clean dry wood are generally allowed with conditions.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Monroe County?
County authority: Monroe County Sanitary Code Article V. State authority: NY DEC 6 NYCRR Part 215. Spring burn ban: March 15 – May 15 (statewide). Prohibited materials: Trash, leaves, treated/painted wood — all banned.
Rochester FAQ
Can I burn leaves in Rochester NY?
No. Open burning is prohibited in all New York State cities, including Rochester. Use the city's yard waste collection program.
Is there a burn ban in Rochester?
Rochester has a permanent ban on open burning within city limits under both city ordinance and NYS DEC regulations. There are no seasonal exceptions.
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