Outdoor burning rules in Swampscott, 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.
Massachusetts restricts open burning to January 15 through May 1 annually with a permit issued by the local fire chief under uniform state regulations.
G.L. c. 48 Section 13 and 527 CMR 1.00 limit open burning of brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris to the period from January 15 to May 1 each year. Burning requires a permit from the local fire warden or chief and must occur between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., at least 75 feet from any dwelling. Burning of leaves, demolition material, household trash, tires, and grass is prohibited statewide year-round. The Department of Environmental Protection and Department of Fire Services jointly administer the rules.
Illegal burning subjects violators to fines up to $25,000 per day under DEP enforcement and additional fire code penalties.
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Essex County.
See how Swampscott's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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