Are treestands allowed to be used on ny state land?

Yes but they have to not be permanent

im not sure if you can use screw in steps can you?

Yes your allowed to use treestands on NY public lands, but you can't leave them there once you depart the public lands. In other words you have to take them in & out everytime you hunt. Although many leave them, and I've left them a few times myself. Your also not allowed to screw anything into a tree. So I use a climbing stand 99% of the time now, carry it in & out with me, and nothings screwd in. IfI happen to throw up a portable I use a climbing stick.

Also not allowed to trim even a tiny branch for shooting lane.

Steve

the best system for hunting state lands, i have found, is the lone wolf system..u are up in the tree in minutes and
u could leave the strap to hang ur stand again on the next morning hunt. i have a extra stand that i might part with
and strap with hook.