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.
A small recreational backyard fire used only for cooking food (charcoal or wood cooking fire, camp-style) is permitted in Somerville provided it is under 3 feet in diameter and height, at least 15 feet from any structure, fence, or overhanging vegetation, and constantly attended by an adult with water or an extinguisher on hand. Propane and gas grills on combustible decks or within 10 feet of combustible walls require review under 527 CMR 1.00. Burning brush, leaves, or rubbish is never permitted because Somerville is a no-burn community under 310 CMR 7.07. Neighbors frequently file nuisance smoke complaints, and the Somerville Fire Department can order a fire extinguished if it causes a nuisance.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle backyard fires.
See how Somerville's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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