Fire Department

Open burning is regulated by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, with the open burning season conducted from January 15th through May 1st of each year. Our Burning Permit Application Process has gone computerized. To obtain a burning permit you can visit Town of Franklin website. Once you obtain your permit, you may burn any allowable day during the season, between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm. You must call for permission to burn. There are restrictions on what is permissible to burn. You need a permit each year and it is valid for the whole season.

According to Massachusetts General Laws (MGL) (Chapter 148 Section 26F) all buildings or structures occupied in whole or in part for residential purposes upon the sale or transfer, shall be equipped by the seller with approved smoke alarms/MGL Chapter 148 section 26F. An operating smoke alarm is required on every habitable level, including the basement. Finished attic spaces also need smoke detector coverage.

No, the fire department does not have the capacity to recharge fire extinguishers. According to Massachusetts General Law, we are not permitted to recommend the services of companies to perform services. Therefore, if you need a fire extinguisher recharged, we recommend you consul the business directory in your telephone book or online search for fire extinguisher companies.

We recommend that you test your alarms on a monthly basis. You can do this with most alarms by pressing the test button for a few seconds. This is also a good time to discuss and review your home fire exit plan with those who live with you.

A tour of any fire station can be arranged by calling our business telephone number 508-528-2323, select option 6. Our SAFE Officer, Doug Perro, is responsible for public education and can arrange for your tour.