Outdoor Burning: Lowell vs Somerville
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Lowell, MA and Somerville, MA?
Lowell and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Open burning of brush is prohibited in Lowell because the city is classified as a non-burn community under 310 CMR 7.07. Residents cannot burn yard waste, leaves, or brush at any time of year.
View full Lowell 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 | Lowell | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Open burning | Prohibited year-round | - |
| Reason | Non-burn community | - |
| Governing reg | 310 CMR 7.07 | - |
| Yard waste | Curbside paper bags | - |
| Exception | Cooking and campfires | - |
| 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.
Lowell FAQ
Can I burn leaves in Lowell in the spring?
No. Lowell is a non-burn community under 310 CMR 7.07, so open burning of brush and leaves is illegal year-round.
How do I dispose of yard waste?
Use paper yard-waste bags for curbside pickup or bring material to the Lowell Solid Waste Facility.
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
See how Lowell and Somerville compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool