Outdoor Burning: Somerset vs Taunton
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Somerset, MA and Taunton, MA?
Somerset and Taunton have similar restriction levels.
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 →Taunton, MA
Bristol County
Taunton allows open burning during the annual season from January 15 to May 1 with a free permit from the Fire Department. Outside this season, all outdoor burning is prohibited. The Fire Department may impose temporary bans during dry conditions and elevated wildfire risk.
View full Taunton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerset | Taunton |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Season | - | January 15–May 1 |
| Permit Cost | - | Free |
| Off-Season | - | All outdoor burning prohibited |
| Contact | - | Fire Prevention: 508-821-1453 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Taunton FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Taunton?
Taunton allows open burning during the annual season from January 15 to May 1 with a free permit from the Fire Department. Outside this season, all outdoor burning is prohibited. The Fire Department may impose temporary bans during dry conditions and elevated wildfire risk.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Taunton?
Season: January 15–May 1. Permit Cost: Free. Off-Season: All outdoor burning prohibited. Contact: Fire Prevention: 508-821-1453.
Compare other topics
See how Somerset and Taunton 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