🔥 Open Burning Season in Great Barrington
January 15 – May 1
Open burning season will be soon be underway in Massachusetts. In Great Barrington, burning is allowed from January 15 to May 1, with important limitations. The Great Barrington Fire Department may deny permits or add restrictions if weather or ground conditions make burning unsafe.
📝 How to Get a Burning Permit
Residents must apply online for a burning permit between 8:00 AM and Noon on the day they plan to burn.
Fires may be started: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Fires must be fully extinguished by 4:00 PM
State law reminder: Under M.G.L. Chapter 48, Section 13, fires cannot be started after noon.
👉 APPLY FOR YOUR BURNING PERMIT HERE (online application)
Important: Leaving a voicemail does not grant permission to burn. You must apply online or speak directly with Fire Department staff. Contact the Great Barrington Fire Department: (413) 528‑0788
✔️ What You May Burn
Brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris(not from commercial or industrial land clearing)
Agricultural materials such as fruit tree and bush prunings, raspberry stalks, and infected beehives
Trees and brush from agricultural land clearing
Fungus‑infected elm wood when no other disposal method is available
❌ What You May Not Burn
Leaves
Brush, trees, cane, or driftwood from commercial/industrial land clearing
Grass, hay, leaves, stumps, or tires
Construction or demolition debris
Household trash
🔒 Safety Requirements
For detailed safety guidance, click safety tips.
Key reminders:
An adult (18+) must attend the fire at all times.
Keep water, tools, or other extinguishing materials close by.
Burn small amounts at a time.
Never use gasoline, kerosene, or other accelerants.
If winds increase or weather changes, put the fire out immediately—most out‑of‑control fires happen during sudden wind shifts.
If a fire becomes unmanageable, call 9‑1‑1 right away.
📞 Need Help?
If you cannot complete the online permit application or have questions, contact the Great Barrington Fire Department: (413) 528‑0788