Outdoor Burning: Oxford vs Webster
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Oxford, MA and Webster, MA?
Oxford and Webster have similar restriction levels.
Oxford, MA
Worcester County
Open burning in Massachusetts is governed by MGL c. 48, §13 and 310 CMR 7.07. The regulated burning season runs January 15–May 1, with burning allowed only between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. with a permit from the local fire department. No county ordinance.
View full Oxford rules →Webster, MA
Worcester County
Webster allows residential open burning only between January 15 and May 1 under MassDEP rule 310 CMR 7.07 and 527 CMR 1.00 §10.14. A daily permit from the Webster Fire Department is required, the fire must be at least 75 feet from any dwelling, only brush and forestry debris may be burned, and the fire must be attended at all times and extinguished by 4 p.m.
View full Webster rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oxford | Webster |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | MGL c. 48, §13 | - |
| Burn Season | Jan 15–May 1, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. | January 15 - May 1 |
| Permit | Local fire department | - |
| County Code | None — county abolished 1998 | - |
| 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 |
| Hours | - | 10 a.m. start; extinguished by 4 p.m. |
| Daily Activation | - | Required each burn day |
| Fire Dept Contact | - | Webster Fire Department |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oxford FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Worcester County?
Open burning in Massachusetts is governed by MGL c. 48, §13 and 310 CMR 7.07. The regulated burning season runs January 15–May 1, with burning allowed only between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. with a permit from the local fire department. No county ordinance.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Worcester County?
State Law: MGL c. 48, §13. Burn Season: Jan 15–May 1, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.. Permit: Local fire department. County Code: None — county abolished 1998.
Webster FAQ
When can I burn brush in Webster, MA?
Only during the Massachusetts state burn season, January 15 through May 1, with a daily permit from the Webster Fire Department. The fire must be attended and extinguished by 4 p.m.
How do I get a burn permit in Webster?
Contact the Webster Fire Department to apply, then activate the permit on each specific day you intend to burn. Permits are issued only between January 15 and May 1 and are subject to suspension on high-risk weather days.
Can I burn leaves or yard trash in Webster?
No. Massachusetts 310 CMR 7.07 prohibits burning leaves, grass, stumps, tires, trash, and demolition debris anywhere in the state, year-round. Only brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris from your property may be burned during the open-burn season.
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