Fire pit rules in Lowell, MA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Wood-burning fire pits, chimineas, and outdoor wood-burning fireplaces are prohibited in Lowell because open burning is banned at all times under 310 CMR 7.07(3)(e). The Lowell Fire Department does authorize propane- and natural-gas-fired fire pits if they meet 527 CMR 1.0 placement and safety requirements.
Because Lowell is one of 22 Massachusetts communities where open burning is prohibited at all times, the Lowell Fire Department states that 'burning is not allowed in fire pits, chimineas or outdoor wood burning fireplaces/stoves.' As an exception, Lowell Fire authorizes the use of propane or natural-gas-fired heating appliances (fire pits or fireplaces) because they don't produce smoke or flying embers and are small in size. Gas appliances must be used per manufacturer specifications and meet the following 527 CMR 1.0 requirements: placed at least 10 feet from any structure or building; not under combustible overhangs or roofs unless a sprinkler system is installed per the state building code; not above the ground floor unless an egress stairway leads directly off the deck or a sprinkler system is installed; propane containers may not be stored in or pass through any building; and the appliance must not block any ingress or egress. Hard-piped appliances must be permitted and inspected by Lowell Fire Prevention and the City Gas/Plumbing Inspector. Lowell Fire also advises keeping children and pets three feet away ('a circle of safety') and never leaving the appliance unattended.
Wood-burning fire pits constitute illegal open burning under 310 CMR 7.07; the fire department may order the fire extinguished and pursue penalties under M.G.L. c. 111, sections 142A-142B. Operating a hard-piped gas appliance without the required Lowell Fire Prevention and Gas/Plumbing inspection violates 527 CMR 1.0 and the state fuel-gas code.
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Lowell, MA
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Lowell, MA
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Lowell, MA
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Lowell, MA
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Lowell, MA
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