Almost all native New York tree species are susceptible to the impacts of invasive species and pests, so it is important to limit their spread throughout the state. Invasive pests like Asian longhorned beetle can hitch a ride to new areas in or on untreated firewood. Transporting firewood can also result in the spread of fungal diseases, such as laurel wilt, and oak wilt.
This summer, whether you’re having s’mores with the kids, a bonfire hangout with friends, or a cookout at camp, limit the spread of invasive species by following New York State’s firewood regulation:
• Untreated firewood may not be imported into New York from any other state or country.
• Untreated, New York-grown firewood must stay within a 50-mile radius of its source of origin.
If transporting untreated firewood and your destination is within 50 miles, you must fill out a Self-Issued Certificate of Origin (PDF).
If purchasing and transporting untreated firewood, it must have a receipt or label that identifies the firewood source; hold onto your receipt until all the firewood is burned.
Heat-treated firewood can be transported anywhere in New York, but it must have a receipt or label that says, “New York Approved Heat-Treated Firewood/Pest-Free”, meaning it has been heated to 71° C (160° F) for 75 minutes.
