Outdoor burning rules in Bristol County, MA — also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance — set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.
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.
Open burning in Bristol County varies by municipality. Most towns allow seasonal burning (Jan 15-May 1) with a free permit from the local fire department. However, Fall River and New Bedford have permanent year-round open burning bans designated by MassDEP. Allowed materials include brush, cane, and forestry debris. Prohibited materials include grass, leaves, construction debris, and trash. Local fire departments may impose temporary bans during drought or high wildfire risk.
Burning without permit: $100 to $500. Burning outside season: $100 to $500. Prohibited materials: additional penalties.
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See how Bristol County's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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