Outdoor Burning: New Bedford vs Somerset
How do outdoor burning rules compare between New Bedford, MA and Somerset, MA?
Somerset has fewer restrictions than New Bedford.
New Bedford, MA
Bristol County
New Bedford is designated by MassDEP as a community where open burning is prohibited at all times under 310 CMR 7.07. No seasonal open burning is permitted. This applies to brush, leaves, and yard waste. The ban reflects the city's density and population.
View full New Bedford rules →Somerset, MA
Bristol County
Most Bristol County towns allow open burning from January 15 to May 1 with a free fire department permit under 310 CMR 7.07. However, Fall River and New Bedford are on the MassDEP list of communities where open burning is permanently banned due to population density.
View full Somerset rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | New Bedford | Somerset |
|---|---|---|
| Open Burning | Prohibited at all times | - |
| Authority | MassDEP 310 CMR 7.07 | MassDEP 310 CMR 7.07 |
| Reason | City density and population | - |
| Enforcement | New Bedford Fire Department | - |
| Most Towns | - | Jan 15–May 1 with free permit |
| Fall River/New Bedford | - | Permanently banned |
| Temporary Bans | - | Possible during drought/wildfire risk |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
New Bedford FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in New Bedford?
New Bedford is designated by MassDEP as a community where open burning is prohibited at all times under 310 CMR 7.07. No seasonal open burning is permitted. This applies to brush, leaves, and yard waste. The ban reflects the city's density and population.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in New Bedford?
Open Burning: Prohibited at all times. Authority: MassDEP 310 CMR 7.07. Reason: City density and population. Enforcement: New Bedford Fire Department.
Somerset FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Bristol County?
Most Bristol County towns allow open burning from January 15 to May 1 with a free fire department permit under 310 CMR 7.07. However, Fall River and New Bedford are on the MassDEP list of communities where open burning is permanently banned due to population density.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Bristol County?
Most Towns: Jan 15–May 1 with free permit. Fall River/New Bedford: Permanently banned. Authority: MassDEP 310 CMR 7.07. Temporary Bans: Possible during drought/wildfire risk.
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