Fire Chief

Burning Season

Open burning is permitted from January 15 through May 1, 2024. 

Rules for Open Burning:

• A permit must be obtained from the chief either online at Berkshire County Burn Permits or by calling 413-623-2185.
• Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially in the spring, and the Chief will determine on a daily basis when it is safe to conduct open burning.
• Burning is from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and the fire must be completely out by 4:00 PM.
• 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.
• Must have an available water supply, shovels and rakes for controlling the fire. The fire must be extinguished immediately if requested by 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.

Residents are also reminded that it is illegal to burn household garbage, hazardous materials, or construction debris. People who conduct illegal burning or who allow a fire to get out of control may be held liable.

Useful Links:

• Open Burning Safety Tips
• MassDEP Air Quality Forecast

Washington does not have its own Fire Department. Instead we receive fire protection services through an agreement with neighboring Becket. We are served out of the North Becket Fire Station at 108 Washington Street (Rte 8) in Becket. For this service, the Town pays a modest annual assessment.

* IN CASE OF EMERGENCY DIAL 911 *

The Becket Fire Department is a volunteer fire department made up of both Washington and Becket resident volunteers. The Becket Fire Chief is currently a Washington resident, who has also served as our designated Fire Chief for many years.

Anyone who would like to make a donation to the Becket Volunteer Firefighters’ Association is encouraged to do so:

Becket Volunteer Firefighters’ Association
557 Main Street, Becket, MA 01223