Backyard Fires: Belmont vs Waltham
How do backyard fires rules compare between Belmont, MA and Waltham, MA?
Belmont and Waltham have similar restriction levels.
Belmont, MA
Middlesex County
Recreational backyard fires in Middlesex County require a permit from the local fire department under 527 CMR 1.00. Fire pits must be under 3 feet wide, 25 feet from structures, and attended.
View full Belmont rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Backyard recreational fires in Waltham require a Fire Department permit under 527 CMR 1.00. Fires must be in approved containers, attended, and kept 25 feet from structures and property lines.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Belmont | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Code | 527 CMR 1.00 Ch 10 | - |
| Permit | Required from fire dept | - |
| Pit size | 3 ft diameter max | - |
| Setback | 25 feet from structures | 25 feet from structures and property lines |
| Fuel | Seasoned cordwood only | - |
| Permit required | - | Yes from Waltham Fire Prevention Bureau |
| Container required | - | Manufactured pit, chiminea, or fireplace |
| Fuel allowed | - | Clean dry firewood only |
| Supervision | - | Attended by adult at all times |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Belmont FAQ
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit?
Yes. Every Middlesex community requires a recreational fire permit from the local fire department before lighting any wood fire.
Are gas fire pits regulated the same way?
Gas and propane fire pits generally do not require a permit but must still follow 25-foot setbacks from structures.
Waltham FAQ
Can I have a backyard bonfire in Waltham?
Only with a permit from the Fire Department and only in an approved contained fire pit. Large open bonfires are not permitted in residential areas.
What if my neighbor complains about smoke?
The Fire Department can respond and order the fire extinguished if it creates a nuisance or safety hazard.
Compare other topics
See how Belmont and Waltham compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool