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Date: 1/21/2021
EAST LONGMEADOW – The Town of East Longmeadow has updated its rules regarding the open burning of brush.
In previous years, open burning permits were purchased at the fire station. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, permits are no longer being issued in person. Fire Capt. Christopher Beecher outlined the new process to Reminder Publishing.
Permit applicants must visit the Town Hall, 60 Center Sq., using the entrance located across from Starbucks. An envelope containing the $5 permit fee is to be placed in the provided envelope bin inside the building. The applicant’s name, address and phone number must be written on the envelope. A permit will then be issued and sent to the applicant via mail. Residents with a 2020 permit may continue to use it this year at no additional cost.
Residents are allowed to burn tree branches, pruning, tree trimmings, driftwood, brush and cane. Materials that are prohibited from burning are grass, leaves, hay, stumps and tires.
East Longmeadow’s open burning rules follow:
• Burning period is from Jan. 15 to May 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fire must be completely out by 4 p.m.
• Burning must be at least 75 feet from a dwelling and must take place on the land closest to the source of the material to be burned.
• You must have an available water supply, shovels and rakes for controlling the fire. The fire must be extinguished immediately if requested by the fire department.
• Accelerants like gasoline are not allowed to start the fire.
• The landowner or the owner’s authorized agent shall remain present to control the fire until it is completely extinguished.
• In case of heavy winds or otherwise dangerous conditions, this permit is invalid, as provided by law.
• Permit holders must call 525-5475 between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day they intend to burn. A recording will inform them whether it is safe to burn that day.