Backyard Fires: Lowell vs Somerville
How do backyard fires rules compare between Lowell, MA and Somerville, MA?
Lowell has fewer restrictions than Somerville.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Small recreational campfires and cooking fires are allowed in Lowell backyards using clean firewood when properly attended and spaced from structures, but all brush and yard-waste burning is prohibited under the city non-burn designation.
View full Lowell rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Recreational cooking fires are allowed only if they meet 527 CMR 1.00 clearance rules. Open burning of yard waste is prohibited year round under state no-burn designation.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed | Small recreational fires | - |
| Clearance | 25 ft from structures | - |
| Fuel | Clean firewood or charcoal | - |
| Banned | Yard waste and trash | - |
| Attendant | Adult required always | - |
| Cooking fires | - | Allowed with 15 ft clearance |
| Yard waste burning | - | Never permitted |
| Size limit | - | 3 ft diameter and height |
| Attendance | - | Adult with extinguisher |
| Nuisance authority | - | Somerville Fire |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lowell FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire in Lowell?
Yes, small recreational fires are allowed with clean firewood, 25 feet clearance, and constant adult supervision.
What if a neighbor complains about smoke?
Lowell Fire can order the fire extinguished under nuisance-smoke provisions if it creates a hazard or unreasonable annoyance.
Somerville FAQ
Can I cook over a fire in my backyard?
Yes, if the fire is small, 15 feet from structures, and attended. Density makes this hard on most Somerville lots.
Can I burn leaves in the fall?
No. Somerville is a no-burn community with no seasonal burn permits issued.
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