Vermont Statewide Rule

Vermont Brush Disposal Through Warden Permits

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Vermont (2026)

Vermont does not impose statewide defensible-space brush clearance mandates, but disposal of cleared brush by burning requires a fire warden permit under 10 V.S.A. ยง 2645. Chipping and composting are unregulated alternatives applying universally statewide.

Key Facts

Defensible-space mandate: None statewide
Burn permit: Required
Statute: 10 V.S.A. § 2645
Landfill clean wood: Banned (Act 148)
Issuer: Town fire warden

Source: Vermont General Assembly

Full Breakdown

Unlike western states, Vermont has not enacted state defensible-space laws around homes. However, when residents clear brush and choose to burn the resulting slash, a kindling permit from the town fire warden is required statewide. Wardens may require setbacks from structures and forest edges and may direct that piles be covered to dry properly before burning. Disposal at solid waste facilities is also regulated under Act 148 (Universal Recycling Law), which bans clean wood from landfills, encouraging chipping or on-site composting.

Violations & Penalties

Burning brush without a permit: fines up to $1,000 plus suppression costs; landfilling clean wood violates Act 148 disposal bans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Vermont require homeowners to clear brush around houses?

No statewide defensible-space mandate exists in Vermont. Brush clearance is voluntary, but burning the resulting debris requires a warden permit.

Can I take cleared brush to the landfill?

Vermont's Universal Recycling Law (Act 148) bans clean wood and yard debris from landfills, so brush must be chipped, composted, or burned with a permit.

Sources

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