Recent storms and downed limbs and brush from this summer and fall year has Ipswich residents cleaning up and burning debris from around their property. The open burning season began on January 15th and runs through May 1st.
A permit is required to burn brush. Fire Chief Paul J. Parisi reminded residents to take advantage of the easy, online permitting process. The Fire Department introduced online application and activation in 2020. Both can be done at www.ipswichfire.org . A permit costs $10 for the season.
Burning on any given day during the season can be done between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., as long as conditions are favorable. The Fire Department decides each morning whether burning is safe, based on the day’s environmental conditions. Massachusetts Environmental Protection rules prohibit outdoor burning when it’s raining, as the smoke tends to hang low and can be irritating to those with respiratory illness. Conversely, high winds or extended periods of low humidity can make even small outdoor fires potentially dangerous.
“If it’s too windy or dry, things can get out of control really fast,” Chief Parisi said. Strict rules are also in place to ensure safe burning:
- Only brush, trees and tree trimming, and other forestry debris may be burned. The burning of grass, leaves, inorganic material or construction debris is strictly prohibited.
- Fires must be at least 75 feet from any dwelling.
- Someone must attend the fire at all times with a hose, rake and shovel to keep the fire small and manageable.
- Use of gasoline or other accelerants is strictly prohibited.
Violation of these rules can result in revocation of the property owner’s permit, or even a fine. Chief Parisi said that several times each year, the Fire Department is dispatched to a property where burning has gotten out of control, threatening structures and vehicles.
“It’s great that Ipswich citizens can dispose of brush and fallen branches this way,” said Chief Parisi, noting that several communities in Massachusetts do not allow any open burning. “But it needs to be done in a responsible way. As always, the safety of our citizens and their property is our main focus.”
Additional safety information can be found here: Open Burning Safety | Mass.gov
Qualified properties can get agricultural permits (in accordance with 310 CMR 7.07) that last throughout the year.
Anyone with questions about open burning can contact the Ipswich Fire Prevention office at 978-356-6631, or email fireprev@ipswichfire.org.