Outdoor Burning: Cambridge vs Waltham
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Waltham, MA?
Cambridge and Waltham 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 →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 | Cambridge | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Burn season | - | January 15 through May 1 only |
| 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.
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.
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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