Mount Vernon, NY Fire Regulations: Brush Clearance (2026)

For most of the year, downed tree limbs and branches (also called brush) that are less than 6 inches in diameter and 8 feet in length, including branches with attached leaves, are allowed to be burned on-site in towns with total population less than 20,000 residents. The burning of brush is prohibited from March 16 through May 14 due to the increased risk of wildfires. Open fires to control the spread of invasive species are allowed with case-by-case approval from DEC. Approval can be obtained from DEC regional offices . Open fires on agricultural lands , as discussed below. Prescribed burns, such as the burning of forest land to achieve a vegetative or wildlife management goal, can be performed, but only in accordance with DEC regulations. Check with your regional DEC office. What is Prohibited? Burning refuse, trash, tires, and other solid wastes. This includes burning trash or other solid wastes in a burn barrel or similar device. Burning loose leaves or leaf piles. Burning pressure or chemically treated wood, painted or stained wood, or composite wood such as plywood and particle board. Firewood that has been heat treated or kiln dried is allowed to be burned. The practice of burning large piles of brush collected from local residents at town or county transfer sites. The individual landowners in small towns may burn their brush on-site, as discussed above. Downed limbs and branches generated at a transfer site are also allowed to be burned on-site with the same restrictions.