Rain, rules & gear — NY

Rainfall closures — New York

NYSDEC: emergency closures follow rainfall over 3" in 24–36 hours. In summer, when water is warmer, some areas may be closed after LESS than 3". Closures may be extended beyond 7 days if water quality has not improved by day 6. North Shore embayments close at least 3 days and may reopen on day 4 after testing (Stony Brook and Mount Sinai harbors may take longer). Recorded closure line 631-444-0480, updated after 4 PM from day 3–4. NYSDEC rainfall criteria ↗

Temporary closures (rain, biotoxins, holiday precautions) and reopenings are posted by NYSDEC; call the 24-hour recording at 631-444-0480 before you go. NYSDEC temporary closures ↗

Harvest only in DEC-certified areas; check the DEC Public Shellfish Mapper. NYSDEC shellfishing ↗

State limits & gear

• No DEC permit is needed for recreational harvest; get your permit from the town Source ↗.
• Up to 1 bushel per day of clams, oysters and mussels combined; hard clams 100/day and 1″ thick at the hinge; soft clams ½ bu, 1½″; oysters ½ bu, 3″ Source ↗.
• Bay scallops: 1 bushel in season, 2¼″ with an annual growth ring DEC limits PDF ↗.
• Hard-clam rakes and tongs: teeth spaced 1″ Source ↗.
• Towns may add stricter rules (residency, Sunday closures, sizes) — check your town page.