The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) issued an emergency statewide ban on residential brush burning through October 10, due to drought conditions, according to a press release from Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office on Fri., July 13. Violators of the open burning state regulation are subject to both criminal and civil enforcement actions. In addition, the DEC will suspend all burning permits previously issued. A moratorium on new permits is now in effect through October 10. At least two small outdoor fires were reported Wed., July 10 in Greene County.