Outdoor Burning: Cambridge vs Lowell
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Lowell, MA?
Cambridge and Lowell have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Open burning is prohibited year-round in Cambridge. The state burn season under 310 CMR 7.07 (Jan 15 to May 1) excludes densely populated cities, so no residential brush burning is allowed.
View full Cambridge rules →Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Open burning of brush is prohibited in Lowell because the city is classified as a non-burn community under 310 CMR 7.07. Residents cannot burn yard waste, leaves, or brush at any time of year.
View full Lowell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Lowell |
|---|---|---|
| Open burning status | Prohibited all year | - |
| State regulation | 310 CMR 7.07 | - |
| Densely populated exclusion | Cambridge listed | - |
| Yard waste disposal | City collection or compost | - |
| Enforcement | Cambridge Fire Department | - |
| Open burning | - | Prohibited year-round |
| Reason | - | Non-burn community |
| Governing reg | - | 310 CMR 7.07 |
| Yard waste | - | Curbside paper bags |
| Exception | - | Cooking and campfires |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Can I burn leaves in Cambridge in the spring?
No. Cambridge is excluded from the statewide open-burning season and never issues residential burn permits.
What should I do with my yard waste?
Use the Cambridge DPW yard-waste curbside collection or compost it on your property.
Lowell FAQ
Can I burn leaves in Lowell in the spring?
No. Lowell is a non-burn community under 310 CMR 7.07, so open burning of brush and leaves is illegal year-round.
How do I dispose of yard waste?
Use paper yard-waste bags for curbside pickup or bring material to the Lowell Solid Waste Facility.
Compare other topics
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