Open Burning Season Underway, Permits Available

TEWKSBURY, MA — Open burning season is underway in Tewksbury, from Jan 15 to May 1, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In order to participate, residents must get a permit from the fire department, at the Central Fire Station, 21 Town Hall Avenue. A permit costs $10, and is valid for the entire season.

Fire officials determine each day whether burning is safe, based on weather and air quality. Residents must call the open air burning information line at (978) 640-4419 to determine whether burning is authorized. Leave your street address and permit number, and a recording will tell you.

Only brush, trees, cane and driftwood can be burned, and fires must be at least 50 feet away from any structures, among other restrictions. Illegal burning can result in fines or jail time.

More information is available from the department website here. The fire department can be reached at 978-640-4410.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.