Boston may require vegetation management for fire safety. MA does not have a statewide defensible space mandate. Local property maintenance applies.
Massachusetts does not have a statewide defensible space mandate. However, Boston may require property owners to maintain vegetation under local property maintenance bylaws. MA DCR (Department of Conservation and Recreation) manages forest fire prevention. Spring wildfire season (March to May) presents the highest risk. MGL c.48 §13 open burning season (January 15-May 1) requires permits. Cape Cod and Pine Barrens areas have elevated fire risk.
Property maintenance violation: notice to comply, fines $50 to $300. Negligent fire: criminal charges. Town enforcement.
Boston, MA
Boston has no general ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Decorations must stay within proper...
Boston, MA
Boston has no specific ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must not encroach on sidewalks, block pu...
Boston, MA
Boston does not have a dedicated ordinance regulating holiday lighting on private residential property. General nuisance, electrical safety, and historic dis...
Boston, MA
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Boston require Inspectional Services Department permits when they include gas, plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Built-...
Boston, MA
Boston treats smokers and solid-fuel grills (wood, pellet, charcoal) the same as charcoal grills under Massachusetts Fire Code 527 CMR 1.00. Use on balconies...
Boston, MA
Boston's Fire Prevention Code (527 CMR 1.00, Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code) prohibits the use or storage of LP-gas grills and propane cylinder...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Suffolk County.
See how other cities in Suffolk County handle brush clearance.
See how Boston's brush clearance rules stack up against other locations.
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