Small recreational cooking and warming fires are permitted in Oneida County under 6 NYCRR 215.3 exceptions. Campfires are limited to under 3 ft across. No burning during the DEC burn ban window March 16-May 14.
NYSDEC 6 NYCRR Part 215.3 exempts small cooking, warming, and campfire pits from the open burning ban when the fire is under 3 ft in diameter and 2 ft in height, uses only clean dry natural wood or charcoal, and is constantly attended with water or sand on hand. These rules apply countywide in Oneida County, including Utica, Rome, and every town. Patio wood-burning chimineas and metal fire pits under these dimensions remain legal year-round, even during the March 16 to May 14 statewide ban, as long as they are recreational and not disposal burning. Cooking grills using propane or charcoal are not restricted. Municipal codes in Utica and Rome may add distance setbacks (typically 15-25 ft from structures). Never leave a fire unattended; failure to attend is itself a violation.
Small fires that grow out of control or are left unattended can trigger $500-$2,500 NYSDEC fines plus liability for any fire suppression and property damage costs.
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