Burn Permits

Burning Rules and Regulations

The Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and the Hingham Fire Department limit open burning for public health and safety reasons. Open burning pollutes the air and can make it difficult for people with respiratory problems to breathe. When the air is stagnant, open burning can pose smoke and odor nuisances - and health risks - to nearby residents, particularly in densely populated areas. Open burning can also pose a safety risk when it is not adequately controlled. The limits on open burning do not apply to outdoor cooking. 

Permits & Notification:

You must obtain a burn permit from the Hingham Fire Department to conduct open burning. Permits are valid for the calendar year only. Once a permit has been issued, you must notify the fire department on each day that you burn.

What to Burn:

Allowed materials: brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris (other than from commercial or industrial land clearing)

Prohibited from burning: leaves, grass, hay, stumps, rubbish, building materials, and tires.

Dates/Times:

January 15 to May 1st

Burning may only take place between the hours of 10 AM to 4 PM.  All fires must be completely extinguished by 4 PM.

No permits will be issued or activated after 2 PM.

Burning Site:

• Burning must be at least 75 feet from all dwellings
• Burning must take place on the land closest to the source of material to be burned
• Burn in a safe clear area.  Remove all grass and combustible material from the area you will be burning. 
• Have an available water supply such as a pressurized water hose
• Burning must be conducted during periods of good atmospheric ventilation without causing a nuisance. 
• The fire must be attended until completely extinguished.