Outdoor Burning: Bellingham vs Medfield
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Bellingham, MA and Medfield, MA?
Bellingham has fewer restrictions than Medfield.
Bellingham, MA
Norfolk County
Bellingham allows residential open burning only during the Massachusetts state burn season — January 15 through May 1 — with a daily permit from the Bellingham Fire Department. Permits are issued through the online Permiteyes system, and a per-day activation call is required between 10 a.m. and noon. Only brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris from the permit-holder's own property may be burned; leaves, grass, rubbish, and construction debris are prohibited.
View full Bellingham rules →Medfield, MA
Norfolk County
Open burning in Massachusetts is governed by MGL c. 48 §13. It is prohibited from May 1 through January 14 each year. During the allowed season (Jan 15–Apr 30), a permit from the local fire warden is required; burning allowed only 10 AM–4 PM.
View full Medfield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellingham | Medfield |
|---|---|---|
| Burn Season | January 15 - May 1 (state-wide) | - |
| State Regulations | 310 CMR 7.07 / 527 CMR 1.00 §10.14 | - |
| Daily Activation | Call 10 a.m. - 12 noon | - |
| Extinguished By | 4:00 p.m. | - |
| Setback from Dwelling | 75 feet minimum | - |
| Allowed Material | Brush, cane, driftwood, forestry debris only | - |
| Permit Portal | permiteyes.us/bellingham | - |
| Fire Dept Contact | 508-966-1112 | - |
| Prohibited Season | - | May 1 – January 14 (no open burning) |
| Permitted Season | - | January 15 – April 30 |
| Hours | - | 10 AM – 4 PM only |
| Permit Required | - | Yes — from local town fire warden |
| Fine | - | Up to $250 per violation (MGL c. 48 §13) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellingham FAQ
When can I burn brush in Bellingham, MA?
Only during the Massachusetts state burn season — January 15 through May 1 — and only with a daily permit from the Bellingham Fire Department activated by phone between 10 a.m. and noon. All fires must be out by 4 p.m.
How do I get a burn permit in Bellingham?
Apply online through Permiteyes (permiteyes.us/bellingham). After your permit is issued, you must call to activate it on each specific day you intend to burn, between 10 a.m. and 12 noon. The fire department reserves the right to suspend permits on high-risk weather days.
Can I burn leaves or trash in Bellingham?
No. Massachusetts open-burning rules (310 CMR 7.07) prohibit burning leaves, grass, stumps, tires, demolition or construction debris, and household trash anywhere in the state, year-round.
Medfield FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Norfolk County?
Open burning in Massachusetts is governed by MGL c. 48 §13. It is prohibited from May 1 through January 14 each year. During the allowed season (Jan 15–Apr 30), a permit from the local fire warden is required; burning allowed only 10 AM–4 PM.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Norfolk County?
Prohibited Season: May 1 – January 14 (no open burning). Permitted Season: January 15 – April 30. Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM only. Permit Required: Yes — from local town fire warden.
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