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Town of Athol Burn Permits

Apply for your online permit today.

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Don't forget to call!

Telephone: (978) 248-0281

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can obtain a burn permit?

Only residents can obtain a permit. No commercial or industrial land clearing will be allowed for non-agricultural purposes. Permits may be issued to non-property owners as long as they have written permission from the property owner. Permits are conditional and may be revoked at any time.

How can I obtain a burn permit?

You may register online using this website, or you can visit us in person.

What can I burn?

You can only burn brush (less than 4" in diameter). You may NOT burn grass, leaves, stumps, or other construction debris. No accelerants may be used.

Do I need a permit?

If you want to have an open-air fire for brush burning, then yes, you need an approved permit. If you are having a barbecue, a permit is not required.

How do activate my permit on the days I want to burn?

Permits are issued on a DAILY basis and may not be allowed due to high fire danger or adverse weather conditions. To activate your daily permit, call (978)248-0281 between 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. in order to burn that day.

What are the hours I can burn?

After you have activated your permit for the day, you can start burning at 10 a.m. and the fire must be fully extinguished by 4 p.m.