Brush Clearance: Arlington vs Somerville
How do brush clearance rules compare between Arlington, MA and Somerville, MA?
Arlington and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, MA
Middlesex County
Open burning of brush in Middlesex County is regulated by 310 CMR 7.07 and requires a permit from the local fire department. Season runs January 15 to May 1 annually.
View full Arlington rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville does not have wildfire-style defensible space requirements. Property maintenance rules require keeping lots free of overgrowth, debris, and nuisance vegetation that could feed fire.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Burn Season | Jan 15 to May 1 | - |
| Permitted Hours | 10 AM to 4 PM | - |
| State Regulation | 310 CMR 7.07 | - |
| Urban Ban | Cambridge, Somerville, etc. | - |
| Permit Source | Local fire department | - |
| Wildfire zone | - | Not applicable (urban) |
| State rule | - | 105 CMR 410 Sanitary Code |
| Enforcement | - | Inspectional Services Division |
| Abatement | - | City cleanup lien if ignored |
| Contact | - | 311 or (617) 625-6600 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Can I burn brush in my yard?
Only in approved towns between Jan 15 and May 1, with a daily permit from the fire department. Cambridge and other urban cities prohibit it entirely.
Can I burn leaves?
No. Burning leaves is prohibited statewide year-round under 310 CMR 7.07.
Somerville FAQ
Do I need defensible space in Somerville?
No. Somerville is urban and has no wildfire clearance rules, but nuisance vegetation must be abated.
Who enforces overgrowth?
Somerville Inspectional Services Division handles property maintenance complaints via 311.
Compare other topics
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