Brush Clearance: Lowell vs Pepperell
How do brush clearance rules compare between Lowell, MA and Pepperell, MA?
Lowell and Pepperell have similar restriction levels.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell property owners must keep yards and lots free of dead brush, tall grass, and fire hazards under the city nuisance ordinance and state fire code, though there are no wildland-urban interface clearance distances because Lowell is fully urbanized.
View full Lowell rules →Pepperell, MA
Middlesex County
Open burning of brush in Middlesex County is regulated by 310 CMR 7.07 and requires a permit from the local fire department. Season runs January 15 to May 1 annually.
View full Pepperell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Pepperell |
|---|---|---|
| Wildfire zone | Not a WUI jurisdiction | - |
| Required | Remove combustible debris | - |
| Enforcer | Inspectional Services | - |
| Remedy | City cleanup with lien | - |
| Firewood storage | Away from structures | - |
| Burn Season | - | Jan 15 to May 1 |
| Permitted Hours | - | 10 AM to 4 PM |
| State Regulation | - | 310 CMR 7.07 |
| Urban Ban | - | Cambridge, Somerville, etc. |
| Permit Source | - | Local fire department |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lowell FAQ
Does Lowell require defensible space clearance?
No. Lowell has no wildfire defensible-space requirements, but property owners must keep lots free of combustible debris and overgrowth.
Who enforces brush removal?
The Department of Inspectional Services and Health Department handle nuisance-lot complaints.
Pepperell FAQ
Can I burn brush in my yard?
Only in approved towns between Jan 15 and May 1, with a daily permit from the fire department. Cambridge and other urban cities prohibit it entirely.
Can I burn leaves?
No. Burning leaves is prohibited statewide year-round under 310 CMR 7.07.
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