ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – The State is issuing a burn ban.

On October 2, Governor Kathy Hochul and the DEC announced a temporary ban on outdoor burning due to increased fire risk across New York.

Officials say backyard fire pits and small, contained fires for cooking or camping are still permitted.

“This ongoing nice weather is great for watching fall foliage or gathering with friends, but it also represents a higher risk for fires that put homes, businesses, and our brave first responders at risk,” said Governor Hochul. “Many regions are already in a drought watch or warning due to the dry conditions, and with the fire risk rising in some parts of the state, it is important to keep everyone safe by implementing this temporary burn ban.”

Every county outside NYC and Westchester is experiencing drought conditions. In the Southern Tier, several counties were recently elevated from a drought watch to a warning. The Southern Tier region is also among those considered a “High” risk for fire danger.

“New York State is fortunate to have some of the most qualified wildland firefighters in the country protecting our forests and communities,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “New Yorkers can help keep them and our resources safe by working to prevent fires in the first place. We fully support Governor Hochul’s decision to ban outdoor fires until conditions return to safer levels and continue to encourage New Yorkers to help conserve water so that we have an abundant supply for firefighting and other essential uses.”

The burn ban will run through October 15, though officials will reevaluate the order prior to expiration.