March 12, 2025
Steuben County Manager bans all outdoor burning in Steuben County
Steuben County Manager, Jack Wheeler has declared a local state of emergency in Steuben County due to high potential for wildfires.
The state of emergency declares it illegal to conduct outdoor burning in Steuben County from 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 until the executive order expires in five days at 11:59 a.m. on March 17, 2025. In addition, the New York State Burn Ban becomes effective on Sunday March 16, 2025, and remains in effect until May 15, 2025.
Warm temperatures and low relative humidity this week along with brisk spring winds combined to increase our fire potential. Local Forest Rangers and volunteer firefighters have responded to an increasing number of wildfires over the past several days.
The major concern currently is unprotected grass, timber and dry brush lots. With the spring season also comes unpredictable winds which can become gusty at any time. These winds can spread a fire to areas of unexposed brush and grass causing any fire to jeopardize life and property.
This executive order from Steuben County bans all open burning and all recreational outdoor open fires. Anyone who knowingly violates any emergency order is guilty of a Class B Misdemeanor.
