Outdoor Burning: Saugus vs Swampscott
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Saugus, MA and Swampscott, MA?
Saugus has fewer restrictions than Swampscott.
Saugus, MA
Essex County
Saugus follows the Massachusetts state framework: residential open burning is allowed only between January 15 and May 1, requires a daily permit from the Saugus Fire Department, must be at least 75 feet from any dwelling, and is limited to brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris from the permit-holder's own property. Burning leaves, grass, trash, or construction debris is prohibited year-round.
View full Saugus rules →Swampscott, MA
Essex County
Massachusetts restricts open burning to January 15 through May 1 annually with a permit issued by the local fire chief under uniform state regulations.
View full Swampscott rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Saugus | Swampscott |
|---|---|---|
| Burn Season | January 15 - May 1 (state-wide) | - |
| State Regulations | 310 CMR 7.07 / 527 CMR 1.00 | - |
| Setback from Dwelling | 75 feet minimum | - |
| Allowed Materials | Brush, cane, driftwood, forestry debris | - |
| Hours | Activate by phone; extinguish by 4 p.m. | - |
| Daily Activation | Required each burn day | - |
| Permit Contact | Saugus Fire Dept | - |
| Permit Season | - | Jan 15 to May 1 |
| Hours Allowed | - | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
| Statute | - | G.L. c. 48 Sec. 13 |
| Leaves | - | Prohibited year-round |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Saugus FAQ
When can I burn brush in Saugus, MA?
Only during the Massachusetts state burn season, January 15 through May 1, and only with an activated daily permit from the Saugus Fire Department. The fire must be at least 75 feet from any dwelling and completely out by 4 p.m.
How do I get a burn permit in Saugus?
Contact the Saugus Fire Department before the burn season opens or during the season to obtain a permit, then call to activate it each day you plan to burn. The department may deny or suspend permits on high-wind or red-flag days.
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Saugus?
No. Massachusetts 310 CMR 7.07 prohibits burning leaves, grass, hay, stumps, tires, trash, and construction/demolition debris anywhere in the state, year-round. Only brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris may be burned during the open-burn season.
Swampscott FAQ
Can I burn leaves in my yard?
No. Burning leaves is banned statewide year-round under DEP air pollution rules. Only brush, cane, and forestry debris may be burned during the open season.
Do I need a permit for a small brush fire?
Yes. A permit from the local fire warden or chief is required for any open burn during the January 15 to May 1 season, and conditions must be safe.
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