Outdoor Burning: Lowell vs Waltham
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Lowell, MA and Waltham, MA?
Lowell and Waltham 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 →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 | Lowell | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Open burning | Prohibited year-round | - |
| Reason | Non-burn community | - |
| Governing reg | 310 CMR 7.07 | - |
| Yard waste | Curbside paper bags | - |
| Exception | Cooking and campfires | - |
| 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.
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.
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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