Recreational backyard fires in Newton are allowed in contained pits with clean wood; open brush fires need a seasonal permit and follow 310 CMR 7.07 burn rules.
Newton residents may have recreational backyard fires in approved portable or masonry fire pits using only clean seasoned firewood or manufactured fire logs. Fires must be at least 25 feet from structures, supervised by an adult, and extinguished completely before leaving unattended. Burning yard waste, leaves, trash, treated wood, or construction debris is strictly prohibited year-round. Any larger open burning of brush requires a daily permit from Newton Fire Department and is only allowed during the January 15 to May 1 open burn season under 310 CMR 7.07. Neighbors can file smoke nuisance complaints through Newton 311, and fire department may extinguish fires that generate excessive smoke or violate air quality standards.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle backyard fires.
See how Newton's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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