Outdoor Burning: Ayer vs Waltham
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Ayer, MA and Waltham, MA?
Ayer and Waltham have similar restriction levels.
Ayer, MA
Middlesex County
Open burning in Middlesex County is permitted ONLY January 15 through May 1 each year under 310 CMR 7.07, and only with a permit from the local fire department. All consumer fireworks remain banned statewide.
View full Ayer rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Open burning of brush in Waltham is allowed only January 15 through May 1 under 310 CMR 7.07 with a daily permit from the Fire Department. Burning household trash or leaves is prohibited year-round.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ayer | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Burn season | Jan 15 - May 1 ONLY | January 15 through May 1 only |
| Code | 310 CMR 7.07 | - |
| Permit | Required from fire dept | - |
| Hours | 10am-4pm daily | - |
| Fireworks | ILLEGAL MGL c.148 s.39 | - |
| Governing regulation | - | 310 CMR 7.07 MassDEP |
| Permit required | - | Daily from Waltham Fire Dept |
| Setback | - | 75 feet from dwellings |
| Prohibited materials | - | Leaves, trash, tires, construction debris |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ayer FAQ
Can I burn leaves in my yard?
No. Leaves are prohibited fuel under 310 CMR 7.07. Only brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris may be burned.
Are fireworks legal in Massachusetts?
No. All consumer fireworks including sparklers are illegal under MGL c.148 s.39. Only licensed display operators may use them.
Waltham FAQ
Can I burn leaves in the fall in Waltham?
No. Leaf burning is prohibited year-round in Massachusetts under 310 CMR 7.07. Use curbside yard waste collection instead.
Do I need a new permit each day I burn?
Yes. Daily burning permits must be obtained from the Waltham Fire Department, and permission can be suspended based on weather.
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