Plymouth County, MA Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)
Outdoor burning rules in Plymouth 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.
Key Facts
- Open-Burn Season
- Jan 15 to May 1
- State Law
- MGL c.48 §13
- Permit Period
- Two days maximum
- Leaves/Garbage
- Never permitted
Summary
Open burning across Plymouth County is legal only January 15–May 1, and only with a permit from the local fire department under MGL c.48 §13. Each permit covers a maximum of two days.
Whoever violates any provision of this section shall be punished by a fine of not more than $500 plus the cost of suppression or by imprisonment for not more than one month or both.
Full Breakdown
MGL c.48 §13 bars any open-air fire without permission from the forest warden or fire chief, and every permit is limited to two days. Statewide, open burning of brush and forestry debris is allowed only from January 15 through May 1; outside that window it is prohibited in Brockton, Plymouth, Duxbury, and the rest of Plymouth County. Burning of leaves, garbage, tires, and construction debris is never allowed. A 75-foot setback from dwellings applies under 310 CMR 7.07. Fire departments grant daily permits based on conditions and may revoke them at any time.
Violations & Fines
Burning without a permit, or outside the permitted season, is punished by a fine of up to $500 plus the cost of suppression, or imprisonment for up to one month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I burn yard waste?
How long is a burn permit good for?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Plymouth County
How Plymouth County compares: Cities with the Strictest Outdoor Burning Rules·Compare Plymouth County to another location·View the Massachusetts fire regulations overview
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