Brush burning season opened yesterday, but before you break out the matches, don’t forget to get your permit.
Permits are $10 for the season (free for those over 65). You can apply for a permit online, or in person at the Fire Station on Monday through Friday (8:00 am to 6:00 pm) or Saturday (9:00 am to 1:00 pm). Note that online applications can take up to 24 hours to process, and your permit is not valid until you get a confirmation email saying it is.
Once you have a permit, you need to call the Fire Department at 508-485-3235 between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm on each day you plan to burn to see if conditions are right.
The permit allows you to burn brush up to 4 inches in diameter. You’re not allowed to burn leaves, grass, hay, stumps, rubbish, construction materials or buildings. Set up your fire at least 75 feet from any building, and of course, have a water supply readily available.
The are more restrictions, and you can read all about them on the Fire Department website. Burning season ends on May 1.
