Outdoor Burning: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge and Somerville 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 →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville is designated a no-burn community under 310 CMR 7.07. Open burning of brush, leaves, or yard waste is prohibited year round with no seasonal permit available.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| State rule | - | 310 CMR 7.07 |
| Somerville status | - | No-burn community |
| Burning season | - | None permitted |
| Allowed use | - | Cooking fires meeting code |
| Disposal | - | Yard waste bags for curbside |
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.
Somerville FAQ
Can I get a burn permit in Somerville?
No. Somerville is excluded from the 310 CMR 7.07 open burning community list.
How do I dispose of leaves and brush?
Use paper yard-waste bags for curbside pickup or drop off at the DPW yard. Composting is also allowed.
Compare other topics
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