Burning Permits
Open Burning Season Starts January 15 and Ends May 1
A permit must be obtained from the local fire chief. Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially in the spring, and the fire department will determine on a daily basis when it is safe to conduct open burning. If winds kick up or other atmospheric conditions change suddenly, making it unsafe to burn, permits can be rescinded (cancelled).
Step 1: Click here to Read all Burning Regulations.
Step 2: Complete the Burn Permit Application.*
Step 3: Activate your valid Burn Permit when burning on allowed days.
* If you have already filled out a valid application and have read the regulations, proceed to "Step 3" to activate your permit for each day you wish to burn.
Open burning must be done:
- By activating a valid burn permit on the day of burning.
- Between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. from January 15 to May 1.
- At least 75 feet from all buildings.
- As close as possible to the source of material being burned, according to Department of Environmental Protection regulations (310 CMR DEP 7.07).
- When air quality is acceptable for burning. Call the MassDEP Air Quality Hotline at (800) 882-1497 or visit MassAir Online to find out if it is.
People conducting illegal burning, or who allow a fire to get out of control, may be held liable for costs of extinguishing a fire, fined, and even imprisoned (MGL c.48 s.13).
Do not leave your fire burning unattended. This is a reason to revoke your burning permit.
No burning will be allowed on “red flag” days announced on local weather reports.
If you are found in violation of these guidelines, your right to burn will be terminated.