Brush Clearance: Somerville vs Wakefield
How do brush clearance rules compare between Somerville, MA and Wakefield, MA?
Somerville and Wakefield have similar restriction levels.
Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville does not have wildfire-style defensible space requirements. Property maintenance rules require keeping lots free of overgrowth, debris, and nuisance vegetation that could feed fire.
View full Somerville rules →Wakefield, MA
Middlesex County
Open burning of brush in Middlesex County is regulated by 310 CMR 7.07 and requires a permit from the local fire department. Season runs January 15 to May 1 annually.
View full Wakefield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerville | Wakefield |
|---|---|---|
| Wildfire zone | Not applicable (urban) | - |
| State rule | 105 CMR 410 Sanitary Code | - |
| Enforcement | Inspectional Services Division | - |
| Abatement | City cleanup lien if ignored | - |
| Contact | 311 or (617) 625-6600 | - |
| Burn Season | - | Jan 15 to May 1 |
| Permitted Hours | - | 10 AM to 4 PM |
| State Regulation | - | 310 CMR 7.07 |
| Urban Ban | - | Cambridge, Somerville, etc. |
| Permit Source | - | Local fire department |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Somerville FAQ
Do I need defensible space in Somerville?
No. Somerville is urban and has no wildfire clearance rules, but nuisance vegetation must be abated.
Who enforces overgrowth?
Somerville Inspectional Services Division handles property maintenance complaints via 311.
Wakefield FAQ
Can I burn brush in my yard?
Only in approved towns between Jan 15 and May 1, with a daily permit from the fire department. Cambridge and other urban cities prohibit it entirely.
Can I burn leaves?
No. Burning leaves is prohibited statewide year-round under 310 CMR 7.07.
Compare other topics
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