GEORGETOWN — Chief Matt McKay and the Georgetown Fire Department would like to encourage residents to get their burning done early this open burning season as several factors may impact the ability to burn later this spring.
Open burning season began Jan. 15 and runs through May 1. Changing weather conditions in the spring, like windier weather and more sun, can contribute to increased fire danger and may lead to many days when open burning is not allowed. Prior drought conditions last year and the lack of snowfall this winter also may contribute to increased fire danger.
Residents who wish to burn this season are encouraged to do so early to avoid being impacted by restrictions. As a reminder, a permit is required to open burn in compliance with Massachusetts law.
How to Attain a Permit:
Residents can apply for a burn permit today by creating an account via the department’s new burn permit portal: Georgetown.firepermits.com. The cost of the permit is $10. Payment should be made online with a credit or debit card or by electronic check. If payment is not made online, a check or money order (made out to the Town of Georgetown) must be submitted to the Georgetown Fire Department prior to the approval of the burn permit.
Residents will receive an e-mail notifying them when the permit is approved, following receipt of payment. On any day that a resident plans to burn, the permit must be activated by visiting their Georgetown.firepermits.com account. When a burn is activated the department’s dispatch is able to quickly view the location of the open burn, which will assist in public safety and emergency management this burn season.
If conditions are unsafe for burning, such as high winds or drought, a notification will be posted on the homepage and the system will prevent an individual from activating a burn permit.
Individuals who don’t have access to a computer should call the Georgetown Fire Department at 978-352-5757 for assistance with their burn permit application.
For more information on open burning in Massachusetts, visit Mass.gov.
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