Mayor Adams Suspends Open Flame and Fireworks Permits Amid Historic Drought and Fire Risk
New York City is ramping up efforts to combat an unprecedented fire risk brought on by severe drought conditions. On Thursday, Mayor Eric Adams, alongside FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker and NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue, announced the suspension of all open flame and fireworks permits citywide. This sweeping action aims to mitigate the heightened risk of brush and forest fires that have already plagued the city in recent weeks. “With the historic level of brush fires we’ve seen and the continued rainfall shortage, we’re stepping up our efforts even further,” Mayor Adams said. “This is absolutely not the year to try deep-frying your turkeys.”
The drought, declared on Monday, has created the highest two-week brush fire count in New York City history. Between November 1 and November 14, the FDNY responded to 271 brush fires citywide. In response, the department formed its first-ever Brush Fire Task Force, equipped with fire marshals, inspectors, and tactical drone units to enhance prevention and response efforts. FDNY Commissioner Tucker stressed the need for public vigilance, stating, “The FDNY has responded to more than 300 brush fires already this month, and we need the public to remain vigilant and conserve water.”
The measures go beyond suspending permits. NYC Parks is canceling previously issued permits for fireworks and open flames in city parks, and FDNY is reviewing permits for similar activities on city streets and waterways. Officials are working with affected individuals and organizations to explore alternatives. Parks Commissioner Donoghue highlighted the need for these actions, saying, “The unprecedented number of brush fires we’ve seen devastate our green spaces… require us to make smart decisions to help keep our city safe.”
The drought warning marks the second of three stages in the city’s water conservation protocol, with the possibility of escalating to a full drought emergency. New Yorkers are being asked to conserve water and avoid activities that could spark fires. Grilling in parks, for example, is prohibited, and fireworks remain illegal citywide. “Every effort counts,” said Camille Joseph Varlack, the city’s Chief of Staff and Extreme Weather Coordinator. “Together, we will navigate this crisis and build resilience for the future.”
The drought’s effects extend far beyond fires. New York City reservoirs are operating at only 63% capacity due to an unusually warm fall, and the city’s water supply system has been forced to pause the Delaware Aqueduct Repair Project to access additional reservoirs. New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar emphasized the broader implications, stating, “New York is now among 48 states experiencing drought conditions due to climate change, showing we must reduce greenhouse gas emissions to give our children the sustainable future they deserve.”
City officials continue to encourage residents to report signs of smoke or fire immediately and take personal responsibility for reducing risks. “All of us have a role to play in keeping our city safe and preserving our water supply,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “Conserve water where you can and be aware when handling anything that can start a fire while outdoors.”
The new measures, though drastic, reflect the severity of the city’s current situation. As Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine noted, the fires in Inwood Hill Park and other parts of upper Manhattan serve as a stark reminder of what’s at stake. “New Yorkers need to take the drought and the dry conditions it’s brought seriously,” Levine said, underscoring the importance of vigilance and cooperation in navigating these challenging conditions.