The FDNY takes action against illegal parking at fire hydrants following fatal fires in the Bronx, Brooklyn

February 28, 2025

To combat rampant illegal parking around fire hydrants, the FDNY has issued its first-ever criminal summons following a fatal fire in which a hydrant closest to the fire was blocked by a vehicle.

FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker on Feb. 28 announced the Department's Bureau of Fire Prevention issued a criminal court summons that resulted in a $4,000 fine for a fire code violation. The summons was issued to an individual who blocked a fire hydrant at a double fatal fire in the Bronx.

On Feb. 12, FDNY units responded to a fire on Anthony Avenue. The fire quickly escalated to a third-alarm assignment. A parked vehicle was blocking the nearest hydrant and primary water source, which was located directly across the street from the fire building. Two people died in the fire, which was caused by a space heater.

The Bronx fire marked the second time in three days in which a fire hydrant was blocked by an illegally parked vehicle. On Feb. 9, two vehicles obstructed the two closest hydrants at another fatal fire in Brooklyn.

"Seconds count in an emergency, and blocking a fire hydrant is a selfish decision that can kill people and endanger FDNY members as they work to save residents," Fire Commissioner Tucker said. "Our Bureau of Fire Prevention took decisive action following the fatal multiple-alarm fire in the Bronx, and now we are seeing the results. I hope this significant fine sends a clear message to New Yorkers: Don't block a fire hydrant."

Section 507.5.4 of the New York City Fire Code makes it illegal to render fire hydrants inaccessible or inoperable. This is the first time this code has been used for a blocked hydrant.

It is illegal to park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant in New York City. New Yorkers are urged to do their part in keeping hydrants clear. If you see a blocked hydrant, report it by calling 311 or visiting NYC 311's website.