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.
Recreational fires in Middlesex County are regulated by 527 CMR 1.00 Chapter 10 (Massachusetts Fire Code) and local fire department rules. Each town issues recreational fire permits separately from open-burning permits. Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Arlington, Medford, and Lowell all require a recreational fire permit (free or nominal fee) before any backyard fire. Requirements: fire pit or device no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height; minimum 25 feet from any structure, property line, or combustible material; only seasoned cordwood or manufactured fire logs permitted (NO trash, leaves, construction debris, or treated wood); adult supervision at all times; water source (hose or extinguisher) on hand. Fires must be extinguished by 10pm in most communities. Dense urban cities (Cambridge, Somerville, Everett) often limit backyard fires further or prohibit them on small lots. Chimineas and gas fire pits are generally allowed without permit. Permits are suspended during Red Flag or drought declarations.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Middlesex County's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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