Outdoor Burning: Holbrook vs Medfield
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Holbrook, MA and Medfield, MA?
Holbrook has fewer restrictions than Medfield.
Holbrook, MA
Norfolk County
Holbrook follows the Massachusetts statewide framework: residential open burning is permitted only between January 15 and May 1 with a daily permit from the Holbrook Fire Department under MassDEP 310 CMR 7.07 and 527 CMR 1.00 §10.14. The fire must be at least 75 feet from any dwelling, attended at all times, and out by 4 p.m. Only brush and forestry debris may be burned.
View full Holbrook 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 | Holbrook | Medfield |
|---|---|---|
| Burn Season | January 15 - May 1 | - |
| State Regulations | 310 CMR 7.07 / 527 CMR 1.00 §10.14 | - |
| Setback from Dwelling | 75 feet minimum | - |
| Allowed Materials | Brush, cane, driftwood, forestry debris | - |
| Daily Activation | Required each burn day | - |
| Extinguish By | 4:00 p.m. | - |
| Permit Contact | Holbrook Fire Department | - |
| 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.
Holbrook FAQ
When can I burn brush in Holbrook, MA?
Only during the Massachusetts open-burn season, January 15 through May 1, and only with an activated daily permit from the Holbrook Fire Department. The fire must be 75 feet from any dwelling and out by 4 p.m.
How do I get a burn permit in Holbrook?
Contact the Holbrook Fire Department to apply for a seasonal permit, then activate it each day you intend to burn. Permits may be denied on high-wind or red-flag days.
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Holbrook?
No. MassDEP rule 310 CMR 7.07 prohibits burning leaves, grass, stumps, tires, household trash, and construction debris year-round. Only brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris may be burned.
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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