WAKEFIELD — The Wakefield Fire Department announced today that the annual open burning season started on Saturday, January 15, 2022 and will continue until Sunday, May 1, 2022. Open burning is allowed each year by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and supervised by the local municipal fire departments.

In order to burn in the open during this period, residents must obtain a permit from the Wakefield Fire Department. To obtain a permit:

• Residents call the Fire Department at 781-246-6432 after 7:30 a.m. to obtain a permit. There is no charge for an open burning permit (Residents don’t need to come to Public Safety Building)

• Permits are issued for two consecutive days. Residents desiring to burn on the second day must call the Fire Department at 781-246-6432 to confirm that burning is being allowed.

• The Wakefield Fire Department reserves the right to revoke any or all permits in the event of unsafe weather conditions or if the resident is found not following the rules for burning. There will be no burning on any date that the Massachusetts DEP prohibits it (Red Flag Days).

The Rules and Regulations for burning are as follows:

1. Burning must be at least 75 feet from all structures.

2. Burning must be carried out between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

3. Burning must take place on land closest to the source of the material being burned.

4. The fire must be constantly attended and can’t be left smoldering. A water supply such as a hose or water pump can, and shovels / rakes for controlling the fire must be available.

5. Materials that can be burned under state regulations include brush, cane, driftwood, tree clippings, and other forestry items. Materials prohibited from burning include grass, leaves, hay, stumps, building materials, and trees.

The Wakefield Fire Department asks for the co-operation of all residents to ensure this year’s open burning season is safe and convenient for all.