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Cemetery

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1. Are there any graves left in Town for future arrangements?

You may not pre-purchase any graves until an immediate need occurs; however, upon immediate need, graves are available for purchase by current residents of the Town, having lived in the Town for a minimum of one year. The purchase of graves is limited to (1) double deep grave for two burials (no single graves are available at this time).

Pine Haven Cemetery Columbarium niches are available for purchase pre-need and immediate need for the inurnment of ashes only. Each niche accommodates (2) standard size urns. A limit of (2) niches per family may be purchased by current residents and former residents whom resided in the Town for more than five years.

2. What happens when the Town runs out of graves?

Prior to running out of graves, a plan will be made in order for the cemeteries to continue to operate and serve the Town.

3. What type of monument may I purchase to have set on my grave?

Single lots/graves:

(1) 2’x1’ monument and foundation, not to exceed 24 inches high (including its base) and one bronze Veterans’ marker and foundation are allowed for each single lot/grave.

Flat marker sections:

(1) flat monument not to exceed 2’x1’ and one bronze Veterans’ marker and foundation are allowed for each flat marker section lot/grave and double deep grave.

4. What type of plantings and flowers are permitted and when are they removed?

All unauthorized plantings and prohibited items may be removed or altered at any time with the Superintendent’s authorization and without notification. No schedule of removal will be posted due to the removal of unmaintained or unsightly items.

Single lots/graves:

Planting and flowers is limited to annual plants and flowers placed in an area in front of a monument that is not more than twelve inches deep by the width of the monument. Cut flowers and/or potted plants may be placed on a grave, but will be removed by cemetery personnel after two weeks, or sooner, if such flowers or plants have become unsightly or unattractive.

Flat marker sections:

No plantings of any kind are allowed. Flower Pot Dimensions: (1) flower pot per lot is allowed with dimensions not to exceed 6” wide (square or round) and overall height (with plantings) not to exceed 12” high. Flag Holders and/or Vigil Lights: (1) flag holder and/or one vigil standard vigil light per lot is allowed with flag dimensions not to exceed 12” by 18” with a maximum height of 24”. All other items and decorations will be removed on a weekly basis.

Columbarium:

Funeral Flowers may be placed in the Columbarium area at the time of inurnment and will be removed within twenty-four hours following the inurnment. No fastening or adhering of any objects including flower holders, solar lights, emblems, decorations, etc. on or around Columbarium, Niche panels, doors walls or surface.

5. Are decorations permitted and when are they removed?

No lot or grave shall have an enclosure of any type, such as a fence, hedge, ditch or curbing.

Decorations and ornaments, such as Christmas trees, pumpkins, balloons, and spin wheel toys, are not permitted in the cemeteries.

Anything that is hazardous to maintenance workers, cemetery employees, or machines, such as marble chips, gravel, rocks, wire pot holders, etc. is prohibited on lots and grave sites in the cemeteries.

All unauthorized plantings and prohibited items may be removed or altered at any time with the Superintendent’s authorization and without notification. The Town and its officials and employees shall not be liable for damage from any source to monuments, markers, or any other privately owned articles or materials within the cemeteries.

6. How do I find the location of someone buried in the cemeteries?

Please call our office at 781-270-1982 or email  cemetery@burlington.org  and we will be happy to assist you during cemetery business hours - Monday through Friday, 7am - 3:00pm.

7. When are the cemeteries grounds open?

Cemeteries are open to visit graves every day from dawn to dusk.

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Conservation

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1. What does the Conservation Commission do?

The Burlington Conservation Commission is responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the associated Burlington Bylaws. The Commission is also responsible for the care and management of over 250 acres of permanently protected open space called Conservation Areas.

2. Do I have wetlands on my property?

Inland wetlands are areas where water is at or just below the surface of the ground. Although these wetlands can appear dry during some seasons, they contain enough water to support certain plants and soils. While some maps may show wetlands, their accuracy is limited. Conservation Department staff are trained to identify these wetlands.

Additionally, a wetland scientist can tell you if your property contains wetlands. All wetland delineations are subject to Conservation Commission review and approval.

3. Do I need to file with the Conservation Commission?

Basically, any work within the floodplain, 100 feet of a wetland, or 200 feet of a stream needs to be reviewed and approved by the Conservation Commission. For detailed information, please visit the Filing Requirements page or contact the Conservation Department.

4. What is the filing deadline for the next Conservation Commission meeting?

All paperwork must be submitted two weeks prior to the Conservation Commission meeting in order to be included on the agenda. The upcoming meeting schedule can be found on the Conservation Commission page.

5. Who do I talk to about a blocked culvert?

If you have concerns about a blocked culvert, you should contact the Engineering Department to determine if the culvert is part of their easement inventory, which would allow maintenance and repair activities.

6. Am I in the floodplain, and do I need flood insurance?

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides floodplain maps for review and purchase online. These maps can also be viewed at the Conservation Department, although the Conservation Department cannot answer any questions about flood insurance or your floodplain designation; those questions should be directed to FEMA.

7. Can I cut a tree (or some trees) on my property?

The Conservation Commission does not have jurisdiction over trees further than 100 feet from a wetland or 200 feet from a stream. If you are looking to cut or trim a tree within those distances, please contact the Conservation Department and we will review your request to determine if a filing is required.

8. Can I cut a tree (or some trees) on Conservation property?

The Conservation Commission does not typically allow trees to be cut on Conservation property. It is the intention of the Conservation Commission to maintain open space in its natural state and the Commission and staff work diligently to protect the trees and other vegetation on Conservation land from destruction.

However, if your home or property is in danger because of an unhealthy or dead tree, please contact the Conservation Department to discuss the issue.

9. Where are the Conservation Areas located and how do I access the Conservation Areas?

We have updated our website to include detailed information, including maps, for our Conservation Areas. Visit the Conservation Areas page to download and print information about our Conservation Areas. Maps are also available at the Conservation Department.

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Conservation - Living with Wetlands

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1. What is a wetland?

Inland wetlands, like those found in Burlington, are areas where water is at or just below the surface of the ground. These wetlands may hold ground-water (water that flows underground), surface water, or rain-water, where it naturally runs or pools over land. Some wetland types found in Burlington are:

• Brooks
• Creeks
• Lakes
• Marshes
• Ponds
• Rivers
• Streams
• Swamps
• Vernal pools

2. Do I have a wetland on my property?

Some wetlands are easy to recognize. If an area holds water year-round, you will be able to easily tell that you have wetlands on your property. However, some wetlands can appear dry at different times of the year. These wetlands are not as easy to recognize.

Although these wetlands can appear dry during some seasons, they contain enough water just below the surface of the ground to support certain plants and soils. Only a trained wetland scientist can determine if an area is a wetland. The Conservation Department staff would be happy to help you determine if there are wetlands on your property.

Before Starting Work in an Area

If you do have a wetland on or near your property (within 100 feet of a wetland or 200 feet of a stream), or if you have mapped floodplain (see information on Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) floodplain), you will need to check with the Conservation Department before starting any work on the exterior of your home or in your yard. Any removal of vegetation, any work that requires digging or filling, or any expansion of your yard or building will need to be reviewed and approved by the Conservation Commission.

Vernal Pool

In the picture is a vernal pool in the summer. This is a wetland.

3. Why are wetlands important?

Wetlands Help Prevent Flooding

Wetlands play a vital role in controlling floods. Wetlands help to lessen the impacts of flooding by absorbing water and reducing the speed at which floodwaters flow. Upstream wetlands can serve to store floodwaters temporarily and release them slowly downstream. Without wetlands as a natural flood control mechanism, flooding can become more severe.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides maps that show estimated floodplain (areas that tend to flood during storm events) for review and purchase online. These maps can also be viewed and photocopied at the Conservation Department. Flood insurance may be required if your home is within mapped floodplain. Contact FEMA or your insurance provider for more information.

If a wetland or a stream becomes clogged or blocked with yard waste or trash, water flow may be compromised and flooding may be increased. It is vital that yard waste and trash be properly disposed of and not dumped into our wetlands. If you see wetlands with yard waste or debris dumping, please call the Conservation Department at 781-270-1655. If you see a blocked culvert (a pipe that carries water under roadways), please contact the Department of Public Works at 781-270-1670) to arrange for maintenance and repair activities.

Wetlands Provide Vital Habitat for Wildlife

Many of our native wildlife species depend upon wetlands for survival. Wetlands provide shelter, food, and water to many animals in our area. A clean, healthy wetland will have a large number of different species in and around them.

Insects

There are many insects, including mosquitoes, which can be found in wetlands. Predators such as fish, birds, and a variety of reptiles and amphibians eat insects and their larvae, which keeps insect populations in check. Mosquitoes are considered a nuisance pest to humans, but a healthy wetland, with a diverse community of animals, will keep mosquito populations down.

Reptiles & Amphibians

Turtles, snakes, frogs and toads live in and rely upon wetlands as well. However, it is important to note, there are no venomous snakes or insects found in Burlington. Numerous species of freshwater fish can be found in Burlington’s streams and ponds.

Birds

Many species of birds can be found in and around our wetlands. Migrating birds (birds that fly to different places during the winter and summer months) depend on wetlands for feeding and resting areas during their long flights. Birds that live in Burlington year-round rely on wetlands for nesting and as primary feeding areas. Other wildlife, such as the mink, muskrat and beavers, rely on wetlands as well.

Wetlands Help Prevent Pollution

Sediments, such as road sand, become suspended in water runoff when it rains. These sediments carry pollutants with them, such as oil and grease from cars, pet waste, heavy metals that erode from automobile breaks, pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. These pollutants are toxic to the environment and can end up in drinking water supplies. Nitrogen and phosphorus, found in lawn and plant fertilizers, are also carried to our wetlands by stormwater runoff.

Wetlands slow the flow of water allowing the sediments, along with the pollutants, to settle out of the water column. Wetland plants then pull these pollutants from the sediments, acting as a filter for clean water. Keeping these pollutants from entering our streams and wetlands is critical to maintaining healthy wetlands. Healthy wetlands are critical to a clean drinking water supply.

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Department of Public Works

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1. What day is trash/recycling picked up?

Trash and recycling is picked up every Thursday. In the event of a holiday, trash and recycling will be collected on Friday. Please view the 2020-2021 yard waste calendar for more details.

2. Do plastic bags go in the trash or recycle bin?

Plastic bags always go in the trash! Here is full list of what you can and cannot recycle.

3. How do I schedule a bulk item to be picked up?

All bulk pickup is scheduled with our trash company, Republic Services. Please call them at 1-800-442-9006. Some items are free and some have a cost associated with them. Please visit our trash and recycle calendar for more details. 

4. What is the process for when my trash isn't picked up?

Please make sure your trash is to the curb by 7am the day of pickup. You should call the DPW office (781-270-1670) the next business day before noon when your trash is missed. If you wait any longer to call the DPW, you will be directed to the trash company.

5. Where do I get the orange overflow bags?

You can get them at any local grocery store at the customer service desk. Due to COVID-19, we are no longer selling the bags at the Town Hall Annex.

6. Is there a town dump for my excess trash?

No. You can order a second trash barrel for $150 per year. 

7. Who do I call for down wires in front of my house?

That is in the jurisdiction of the police department. Please call them at 781-272-1212

8. A tree fell on my property, can you come pick it up?

For the most part, if a tree is on your property, you own the tree. We have a tree warden who can make a final decision.

9. Are private irrigation wells exempt from the water ban?

The Board of Health handles all private irrigation wells. In general, they require private well owners to adhere to the current water restrictions in the Town. Please call them for more information (781-270-1955).

10. Who do I call if my property was damaged by the Town?

If it was a plow/sander, call the Highway at 781-270-1677. If it was caused by paving, call Engineering at 781-270-1640.

11. How do I pay my water bill online?

Fill out your account number with no dash (ex. 12312345) in the “account number” field and the first few letters of your last name in the “customer name” field (Ex. SMI for Smith). If you do not know your account number and do not have a recent bill to reference, please call us at 781-270-1670. If you have any other issues paying bills, please call invoice cloud 866-342-9267.

12. Can I pay my bill over the phone?

No. You can only pay online or at the tax office. Final water bills must be paid in person at the tax office.

13. Why are we always on a water ban? Aren’t we connected to the MWRA now?

Please visit our Water Conservation page for all information regarding water restrictions. 

14. What is the Town's current water ban? Are there any exemptions?

Exemptions are given to those who are trying to establish new grass or plantings in April, May, September, and October. Exemptions are NEVER given in June, July, or August. You need written permission from the DPW for this exemption and can apply here. Please visit our Water Conservation page for more information on the current water ban.

15. How do I appeal my water ban violation/fine?

Please submit all appeals via letter to the Selectmen’s office within 21 days of the date on the restriction warning notice.

16. How do I sign up to get important notifications from the Town/DPW?

Please sign up for our code red program for all important alerts pertaining to your address.

17. How do I get rid of paint or hazardous materials?

You can put paint cans in the trash toter if you let the paint dry out. For all questions related to hazardous waste, please call the Board of Health at 781-270-1955.

18. Who do I call about a dead/stray/wild animal?

Please call the animal control officer at 781-270-1698.

19. How do I change the name on my water bill?

The DPW needs the name change request in writing. Please email dpwburlington@burlington.org with the request.

20. How much does a second water meter cost?

$325 . Click here to apply. 

21. When are the sidewalks plowed after a storm?

We plow the sidewalks when all the roads are completed. When doing the sidewalks the time it takes to do them determines on the amount of snow.  1-3 inches takes less time because we can plow them. If we have to snow blow the sidewalks, it takes much longer.

22. What is the plowing procedure for roads?

Please visit our snow plowing page for details and tips.

23. How do I report a broken or damaged trash/recycling toter?

Please call the DPW at 781-270-1670. You will be instructed to leave your trash toter to the curb after it is emptied on either the current or following Thursday. A different truck will come by later in the day to repair or replace your toter.

24. Are there any graves left in Town for future arrangements?

You may not pre-purchase any graves until an immediate need occurs; however, upon immediate need, graves are available for purchase by current residents of the Town, having lived in the Town for a minimum of one year. The purchase of graves is limited to (1) double deep grave for two burials (no single graves are available at this time).

Pine Haven Cemetery Columbarium niches are available for purchase pre-need and immediate need for the inurnment of ashes only. Each niche accommodates (2) standard size urns. A limit of (2) Niches per family may be purchased by current residents and former residents whom resided in the Town for more than five years.

25. What happens when the Town runs out of graves?

Prior to running out of graves, a plan will be made in order for the cemeteries to continue to operate and serve the Town.

26. What type of monument may I purchase to have set on my grave?

Single lots/graves:

(1) 2’x1’ monument and foundation, not to exceed 24 inches high (including its base) and one bronze Veterans’ marker and foundation are allowed for each single lot/grave.

Flat marker sections:

(1) flat monument not to exceed 2’x1’ and one bronze Veterans’ marker and foundation are allowed for each flat marker section lot/grave and double deep grave.

27. What type of plantings and flowers are permitted and when are they removed?

All unauthorized plantings and prohibited items may be removed or altered at any time with the Superintendent’s authorization and without notification. No schedule of removal will be posted due to the removal of unmaintained or unsightly items.

Single lots/graves:

Planting and flowers is limited to annual plants and flowers placed in an area in front of a monument that is not more than twelve inches deep by the width of the monument. Cut flowers and/or potted plants may be placed on a grave, but will be removed by cemetery personnel after two weeks, or sooner, if such flowers or plants have become unsightly or unattractive.

Flat marker sections:

No plantings of any kind are allowed. Flower Pot Dimensions: (1) flower pot per lot is allowed with dimensions not to exceed 6” wide (square or round) and overall height (with plantings) not to exceed 12” high. Flag Holders and/or Vigil Lights: (1) flag holder and/or one vigil standard vigil light per lot is allowed with flag dimensions not to exceed 12” by 18” with a maximum height of 24”. All other items and decorations will be removed on a weekly basis.

Columbarium:

Funeral Flowers may be placed in the Columbarium area at the time of inurnment and will be removed within twenty-four hours following the inurnment. No fastening or adhering of any objects including flower holders, solar lights, emblems, decorations, etc. on or around Columbarium, Niche panels, doors walls or surface.

28. Are decorations permitted and when are they removed?

No lot or grave shall have an enclosure of any type, such as a fence, hedge, ditch or curbing.

Decorations and ornaments, such as Christmas trees, pumpkins, balloons, and spin wheel toys, are not permitted in the cemeteries.

Anything that is hazardous to maintenance workers, cemetery employees, or machines, such as marble chips, gravel, rocks, wire pot holders, etc. is prohibited on lots and grave sites in the cemeteries.

All unauthorized plantings and prohibited items may be removed or altered at any time with the Superintendent’s authorization and without notification. The Town and its officials and employees shall not be liable for damage from any source to monuments, markers, or any other privately owned articles or materials within the cemeteries.

29. How do I find the location of someone buried in the cemeteries?

Please call our office at 781-270-1982 or email  cemetery@burlington.org  and we will be happy to assist you during cemetery business hours - Monday through Friday, 7am - 3:00pm.

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Elections

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1. How do I Vote by Mail

Link here to get an application

2. Where is Early Voting in Burlington and when

Early Voting In Person  - for the November Election will be at The Grand View Farm Hall, 55 Center St starting on October 17th

The hours will be:

Saturday - October 17th 8 AM to 1 PM 

Sunday -October 18th 8 AM to 1 PM

Monday -  8:30 to 4:30 PM

Tuesday - 8:30 to 4:30 PM 

Wednesday -  8:30 to 7 PM 

Thursday -8:30 to 4:30 PM 

Friday -  8:30 to 1 PM

Saturday - October 24th 2 PM to 8 PM

Sunday -October 25th 2 PM to 8 PM

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Firearms Licensing

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1. How long will it take to get my License to Carry Firearms / Firearms Identification Card (LTC/FID)?

Licenses are currently taking 6 to 8 weeks (process involves three other agencies).

2. How do I get my completed License to Carry Firearms / Firearms Identification Card (LTC/FID)?

When completed your License/FID Card will be mailed to the address you provided at the time of application (home/business).

3. I am changing my address. Whom do I notify?

Under M.G.L. c. 140, §129B(10), and §131(l), a holder of a Firearms Identification Card (FID) Card or an License to Carry Firearms (LTC) must notify, in writing, the licensing authority that issued the Card or License, the chief of police into whose jurisdiction the Card or License holder moves, and the Firearms Records Bureau / Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (FRB/DCJIS). The notice must be made by certified mail within 30 days of its occurrence. In lieu of notifying the FRB/DCJIS via certified mail, you may call 617-660-4722 to report your change of address.

The following information is required:

• Active firearms license number
• Date of birth
• Driver’s license number for identity verification
• Name

4. I am transferring/selling, a firearm. Is there anything I need to do

Massachusetts General Law c. 140, §§128A and 128B, requires all individuals who sell, transfer, inherit, or lose a firearm to report the sale, transfer, inheritance, or loss of the firearms to the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services Firearms Records Bureau (FRB). This online system will allow you to report the sale, transfer, inheritance, or loss/theft data electronically to the FRB.

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Grass Recycling

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1. How do I grasscycle?

• Leave grass clippings on your lawn after mowing. Clippings break down in 7 to 14 days, act as top dressing fertilizer and keep your lawn green and healthy.
• Mow often, cutting only one-third of grass growth, and use a sharp blade when conditions are dry.
• Water your lawn in the morning, but less frequently and for longer periods of time.

2. What are the benefits of grasscycling?

• Clippings release valuable nutrients that eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers.
• Grass clippings are about 90% water, so they return ground moisture, reducing waste.
• Increased lawn resistance to disease, drought and insects.
• Lawn care time is cut in half and you save money.

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Highway

Show All Answers

1. Who do I call for down wires on or near my property?

That is in the jurisdiction of the police department. Please call them at 781-272-1212

2. How do I report a pothole?

Please call the Highway Division at 781-270-1677, Monday through Friday, from 7 am to 3:30 pm with the location of the pothole.

3. How can I get a street or sidewalk repaired?

Call the Highway Division at 781-270-1677 with your name, address, phone number, and a description and location of requested repairs. 

4. How do I get my street swept?

Street sweeping occurs each year from spring through fall. Every attempt is made to sweep all streets in Town, however, we are not averse to taking requests. 

5. How do I report a clogged drain/catch basin?

Please call the Highway Division at 781-270-1677 Monday through Friday 7 am to 3:30 pm with the location of the clogged basin or drain.

6. What do I do if I notice that there is a sign missing at the end of my street?

To report a missing sign, please contact the Highway Division at 781-270-1677 during normal business hours with the location and description of the missing sign.

7. A tree fell on my property, can you come and pick it up?

For the most part, if a tree is on your property, you own the tree. We have a tree warden who can make a final decision.

8. Who do I call if my property was damaged by the Town?

If it was a plow/sander, call the Highway at 781-270-1677. If it was caused by paving, call Engineering at 781-270-1640.

9. Who do I call for a dead/stray/wild animal?

Please call the animal control officer at 781-270-1698.

10. When are the sidewalks plowed after a storm?

We plow the sidewalks when all the roads are completed. When doing the sidewalks the time it takes to do them determines on the amount of snow.  1-3 inches takes less time because we can plow them. If we have to snow blow the sidewalks, it takes much longer.

11. What is the plowing procedure for roads?

Please visit our snow plowing page for details and tips.

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Household Hazardous Waste

Show All Answers

1. Will any material be refused?

Yes. We reserve the right to refuse any material which is not deemed acceptable by the managing site chemist.

2. What if I can’t identify a material?

Keep materials in original containers when possible. A chemist will help with difficult identifications.

3. Is there a charge?

Not unless you have an unusually large amount of materials to be disposed.

4. How do I know if a product is hazardous?

Look on the packaging label for the words:

• Caution
• Danger
• Poison
• Warning

Additionally, a hazardous product has at least one of the following properties:

• Corrosive
• Flammable
• Reactive
• Toxic

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Household Hazardous Waste - How Do I Dispose Of

Show All Answers

1. Household appliances and computer monitors?

Household appliances (stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers), computer equipment (CPU, monitors, keyboards), air conditioners and televisions will be picked up curbside by Republic Services. Call 800-442-9006 to schedule a pick up before placing appliances curbside.

2. Latex Paint?

If your paint can contains only a small amount of paint, place the can in a secure, ventilated area and remove the lid to promote hardening of residual paint. You can also mix in some kitty litter to promote hardening. If more than residual paint is left in can, pour the paint in a large cardboard box lined with newspaper. Once the paint in the can and/or box is dry, throw it away with household trash.

3. Smoke Detectors?

The radioactive source in smoke detectors is so small that it is not considered hazardous and can be thrown away in your household trash. If the battery is non-alkaline (e.g. Nickel-Cadmium or Lithium), the battery can be recycled at the Household Hazardous Waste collection event or bring it to the Board of Health office at 61 Center Street.

4. Construction Materials?

Make sure your contractor removes these materials (pressure treated wood, shingles, roofing material, etc.) when the project is complete. These materials cannot be placed in household trash and they will not be accepted at Household Hazardous Waste Day. If you have these materials, contact a local trash removal company for disposal.

5. Home Medical Waste?

Unwanted or expired medicines or pharmaceuticals can be Recycled at the Police Station (PDF). Do not pour liquid medication down the drain. Disposable sheets, medical gloves and soiled bandages should be wrapped well in plastic bags and place in your household trash. Individuals who have received cancer treatment drugs or radioactive medicines should follow specific instructions issued by the hospital regarding disposal of radioactive waste materials.

6. Medical Sharps?

Keep sharp objects such as needles, syringes, and lancets in secure containers out of the reach of children. For disposal of medical sharps place them in a rigid plastic container or designated medical waste container with a secure lid.

For more information visit our Medical Sharps Disposal page to learn more about the medical sharps disposal services available in Burlington.

7. Fire Extinguishers?

The two most common types include dry chemical (sodium bicarbonate or monoammonium phosphate) and carbon dioxide (CO2), both of which are not hazardous. To empty contents, discharge outside, away from children or pets. Monoammonium phosphate is an irritant to eyes and the respiratory tract. Wear goggles and particulate mask when discharging extinguisher.

Dry Chemical Extinguishers

• May be discharged in an area where an acidic fertilizer would be used such as around evergreens. Do not use on lawns
• When relieving the pressure (emptying) the container for disposal, review manufacturers’ instructions, or, if unavailable, use the PASS technique:
  • Pull the pin; this unlocks the operating lever and allows you to discharge the extinguisher. Some extinguishers may have other seals or tamper indicators
  • Aim low; Point the extinguisher nozzle (or hose) at the base of the item
  • Squeeze the lever above the handle: this discharges the extinguishing agent. Releasing the lever will stop the discharge (some extinguishers have a button instead of a lever)
  • Sweep from side to side
• After pressure has been relieved (when nothing else comes out) remove the head from the container and place it with scrap metal or in the trash

Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers

• These extinguishers are refillable and should be refilled after each use. Check the Yellow Pages under "Fire Extinguishers - Recharging"
• If the extinguisher becomes defective, drill holes in the cylinder after pressure has been relieved and then place in the trash
• Ask fire equipment companies in your area if they will accept used extinguishers (listed in the Yellow Pages)

Very Old Fire Extinguishers

• Consult fire department. Very old fire extinguishers may contain carbon tetrachloride, a known carcinogen
• Take to a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event (visit the Household Hazardous Waste Collection page for more information)

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Leaf Mulching

Show All Answers

1. How do I mulch leaves?

You can shred your leaves using a mulching lawn mower, a leaf shredder, a leaf vacuum/shredder, or even a do-it-yourself setup using a weed whacker inside a trash can.

After mulching leaves on your lawn, you may see leaf shreds both on the surface of the grass and in between the blades of grass. They should not be of the density or size (under 1 square inch) that will block light and/or smother the turf. Over the winter, those leaf shreds on top of the grass should fall into the root zone soil, as well. There, they will decompose naturally by mid to late spring.

2. What are the benefits of mulching leaves?

• Free mulch protects and enhances your landscape beds.
• Grass-cycling provides similar benefits for lawn fertilization and soil health.
• It also helps improve drainage and water retention.
• You’ll have a greener lawn because as leaf mulch breaks down it naturally fertilizes the soil.
• You’ll have a healthier lawn because leaf mulch improves soil structure and soil biology.

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PFAS

Show All Answers

1. Why are we not getting all water from the MWRA?

Due to the capacity of the existing pipe, we can only get up to 1 million gallons of water per day from the MWRA. The Town's average daily use is 3 million gallons per day.

2. Why wasn't this an issue until now?

Though we presume that PFAS6 has been in the water of over 40 years, there hasn't been a way to test at the levels we have been until now. The Massachusetts DEP lowered the standard of PFAS6 levels in October of 2020 with Burlington required to test for the first time in April 2021. 

3. What is the Town doing for a short-term solution?

We are supplementing our water with the 1 million gallons we can currently take from the MWRA via our Phase 1 pipe through Lexington. We have a bottled water rebate program in place for vulnerable populations until we can reduce the amount of PFAS6 in our water town-wide. Information for this program can be found on the PFAS page of the website. 

4. What is the Town doing for a long-term solution?

Approved at September 2021 Town Meeting, we will be installing a filter at the Mill Pond Water Treatment plant to reduce the amount of PFAS6 town-wide. We expect this project to be complete by the end of calendar 2022. We will also supplement the Mill Pond water with MWRA water.

5. Why are we building a filter facility at Mill Pond vs. a full MWRA connection?

Due to project timing and long term redundancy needs, we know that the filter facility will be a faster solution to the existing PFAS problem. Please see the project timeline for more details. 

6. What should I do as a resident?

Unless you are in a sensitive subgroup, you can continue to use the water as you always have. The 20PPT value is applicable to a lifetime of consuming the water. If you are concerned still, you can purchase a home water treatment system or bottled water. Be aware that not all bottled water is PFAS6 free. Please visit Mass.gov for the full list.

7. What can I do if I am in a sensitive subgroup?

Those in a sensitive subgroup are advised not to consume, drink, or cook with the water when at a level above 20PPT. Bottled water is recommended for consumption. Those who qualify can apply for our bottled water rebate program. Make sure to use tested bottled water (list available at Mass.gov). 

8. What is considered a sensitive subgroup?

Those who are pregnant, nursing, have an infant under the age of 1, or are diagnosed by their health care provider to have a compromised immune system.

9. How often do we sample for PFAS6?

We are currently sampling monthly per DEP requirements. 

10. How will residents be alerted to any changes related to PFAS?

Monthly PFAS reports will be sent in the mail. We will also update our website as new information comes in.

11. Will boiling water for consumption improve the water quality?

No. Boiling the water will not destroy PFAS6. It will somewhat increase the levels due to the evaporation of some of the water. 

12. Can I drink the water?

We suggest that those in the previously mentioned sensitive subgroups use bottled water for all consumption (drinking, cooking, etc). Those who are not in those subgroups are not at risk for harm caused by PFAS6.

13. Why do we send the quarterly mailing with only 2 months of data?

If the average of the month one + month two + zero will be greater than the MCL of 20 ppt, we are required by MassDEP to send our public notice within 30 days of violation. Since our quarterly average of month one + month two + zero has historically been greater than the MCL of 20 ppt, we have to send our mailing before the results of month three are released in order to be in compliance. 

14. Why do other Towns have three months of data?

Towns like Woburn are very close to being in compliance with the MCL of 20 ppt. If Woburn has 19 ppt for month one and 18 ppt for month two, their month three results may place them within the 20 ppt compliance and not require them to send a public notice at all. 

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Trash & Recycling

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1. What day is trash/recycling collected?

Trash and recycling is picked up every Thursday. In the event of a holiday, trash and recycling will be collected on Friday. Please view the 2020-2021 yard waste calendar for more details.

2. Do plastic bags go inside the trash or the recycling bin?

Plastic bags always go in the trash! Here is full list of what you can and cannot recycle.

3. How do I report a broken or damaged trash/recycle toter?

Please call the DPW at 781-270-1670. You will be instructed to leave your trash toter to the curb after it is emptied on either the current or following Thursday. A different truck will come by later in the day to repair or replace your toter.

4. How do I schedule a bulk item to be picked up?

All bulk pickup is scheduled with our trash company, Republic Services. Please call them at 1-800-442-9006. Some items are free and some have a cost associated with them. Please visit our trash and recycle calendar for more details.

5. What is the process for when my trash isn't picked up?

Please make sure your trash is to the curb by 7am the day of pickup. You should call the DPW office (781-270-1670) the next business day before noon when your trash is missed. If you wait any longer to call the DPW, you will be directed to the trash company.

6. Where do I get the orange overflow bags?

You can get them at any local grocery store at the customer service desk. Due to COVID-19, we are no longer selling the bags at the Town Hall Annex.

7. Is there a Town dump for my excess trash?

No. You can order a second trash barrel for $150 per year. 

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Water Treatment

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1. Where does my water come from?

The Town of Burlington’s drinking water system contains two separate water treatment plants drawing water from both surface and ground water sources. The Mill Pond Water Treatment Plant treats water from the Mill Pond reservoir. The Mill Pond Treatment Plant has the capacity to treat up to 2.5 million gallons of water per day. The Vine Brook Water Treatment Plant (above) treats water from four ground wells located with in the Vine Brook Aquifer. The Vine Brook Water Treatment Plant has the capacity to treat 1.5 million gallons of water per day.  Both plants filter and clarify the water to remove contaminants, provide fluoridation, corrosion control and disinfections. We also currently take 1 million gallons per day from the MWRA via the connection that was established on Adams Street in December of 2020.

2. What’s a Cross-Connection?

Cross-connections that contaminate drinking water distribution lines are a major concern. A cross-connection is formed at any point where a drinking water line connects to equipment (boilers), systems containing chemicals (air conditioning systems, fire sprinkler systems, irrigation systems), or water sources of questionable quality. Cross-connection contamination can occur when the pressure in the equipment or system is greater than the pressure inside the drinking water line (backpressure). Contamination can also occur when the pressure in the drinking water line drops due to fairly routine occurrences (main breaks, heavy water demand), causing contaminants to be sucked out from the equipment and into the drinking water line (backsiphonage).

Outside water taps and garden hoses tend to be the most common sources of cross-connection contamination at home. The garden hose creates a hazard when submerged in a swimming pool or when attached to a chemical sprayer for weed killing. Garden hoses that are left lying on the ground may be contaminated by fertilizers, cesspools, or garden chemicals. Improperly installed valves in your toilet could also be a source of cross-connection contamination. Community water supplies are continuously jeopardized by cross-connections unless appropriate valves, known as backflow prevention devices, are installed and maintained. We have surveyed industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities in the service area to make sure that potential cross-connections are identified and eliminated or protected by a backflow preventer. We also inspect and test backflow preventers to make sure that they provide maximum protection.

For more information on backflow prevention, contact the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.