Fire pit rules in Belchertown, MA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Recreational fires are legal in every Hampshire County town, but any open-air fire needs a permit from the local fire department under MGL c.48 §13. A cooking fire on clear sand or gravel is exempt.
Northampton, Amherst, Easthampton, South Hadley, Belchertown, Ware and the rest of Hampshire County follow MGL c.48 §13, since no county government has existed here since 1999. No open-air fire may be set without permission from the forest warden or fire chief, and each permit covers no more than two days. Adults 18 or older may light a cooking fire without a permit on sandy or gravelly land free of vegetation, if the fire is enclosed in rocks, metal, or other nonflammable material. Under 527 CMR 1.00 (NFPA 1), a recreational fire must sit at least 15 feet from any structure and stay attended. Departments revoke permits when conditions turn dry.
Setting an open-air fire without a permit draws a fine of up to $500 plus the cost of suppression, or imprisonment for up to one month.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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