Outdoor Burning: Clinton vs Fitchburg
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Clinton, MA and Fitchburg, MA?
Clinton and Fitchburg have similar restriction levels.
Clinton, MA
Worcester County
Clinton allows residential open burning only between January 15 and May 1 with a daily permit from the Clinton Fire Department. Open burn hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To obtain permission to burn, residents must call the Public Safety Dispatch Center at (978) 365-4165 Option 0. The fire must be 75 feet from any dwelling, attended at all times, and limited to brush and forestry debris.
View full Clinton rules →Fitchburg, MA
Worcester County
Fitchburg allows open burning Jan 15–May 1 under MGL c. 48, §13 and 310 CMR 7.07. Burn permits required — apply through Fitchburg Health Department (978-829-1870). Burning allowed 10 AM–4 PM only. Call Fire Dispatch after 10 AM before burning (978-345-9660 x0). Must be 75 feet from any building.
View full Fitchburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clinton | Fitchburg |
|---|---|---|
| Burn Season | January 15 - May 1 | Jan 15–May 1 |
| Permitted Hours | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. | - |
| Dispatch Phone | (978) 365-4165 Option 0 | - |
| Fire Dept Direct | (978) 365-4111 | - |
| Setback from Dwelling | 75 feet minimum | - |
| Allowed Materials | Brush, cane, driftwood, forestry debris | - |
| State Regulations | 310 CMR 7.07 / 527 CMR 1.00 §10.14 | - |
| Hours | - | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Permit | - | Health Dept: 978-829-1870 |
| Setback | - | 75 ft from any building/tree |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clinton FAQ
When can I burn brush in Clinton, MA?
Only during the Massachusetts state burn season, January 15 through May 1, and only between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. with a daily permit. Call Clinton Public Safety Dispatch at (978) 365-4165 Option 0 to obtain permission each day you intend to burn.
How do I get a burn permit in Clinton?
Call the Public Safety Dispatch Center at (978) 365-4165 Option 0 to obtain a daily open-brush burning permit. Permits are only issued during the January 15 - May 1 season and may be denied on high-wind days.
Can I burn leaves or trash in Clinton?
No. MassDEP rule 310 CMR 7.07 prohibits burning leaves, grass, stumps, tires, household trash, and construction debris anywhere in Massachusetts year-round. Only brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris may be burned.
Fitchburg FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Fitchburg?
Fitchburg allows open burning Jan 15–May 1 under MGL c. 48, §13 and 310 CMR 7.07. Burn permits required — apply through Fitchburg Health Department (978-829-1870). Burning allowed 10 AM–4 PM only. Call Fire Dispatch after 10 AM before burning (978-345-9660 x0). Must be 75 feet from any building.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Fitchburg?
Burn Season: Jan 15–May 1. Hours: 10 AM–4 PM. Permit: Health Dept: 978-829-1870. Setback: 75 ft from any building/tree.
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