Open Burning Season Begins, Permits Available

NORTH ANDOVER, MA — Open burning season began in North Andover Friday, with permits available from the North Andover Fire Department.

Anyone who wants to participate in open burning must get a permit online here.

"Open burning can only be conducted with a permit issued by the fire department and is only permitted for brush, cane, driftwood, forestry debris, agricultural debris, and, under limited conditions, fungus-infected elm wood," the department said. "Burning grass, hay, leaves, stumps, and commercial or industrial land clearing for non-agricultural purposes is prohibited."

A decision is made at 9:30 a.m. daily on whether burning is allowed, based on weather conditions and state recommendations. Permits can be rescinded if weather changes suddenly. On allowed days, residents must activate their permits in order to burn.

The town also shared its fire pit regulations. Fire pits must be at most 3 feet in diameter and have someone 21 or older present at all times when in use.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.