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Chelsea, MA Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified March 2026

Outdoor burning rules in Chelsea, MA, also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance, set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.

Key Facts

Open Burning: BANNED at all times
Fire Pits: NOT allowed (Fire Dept approval needed)
Authority: Chelsea Fire Dept / 310 CMR 7.07
Permits: 617-466-4620

Summary

Open burning is BANNED in Chelsea at all times. Chelsea is one of approximately 22 Massachusetts cities that permanently prohibits outdoor burning. Fire pits and chimineas are also prohibited unless specifically approved by the Chelsea Fire Department.

OPEN BURNING IS NOT PERMITTED Per order of the Fire Chief, open burning is not permitted in the City of Chelsea at anytime The City of Chelsea is one of 22 cities in the State of Massachusetts that does not allow open burning. The Fire Prevention Division is responsible for providing fire and life safety protection to the public by ensuring fire code compliance and enforcement of the Fire Prevention Laws and Codes. The Division reviews building plans for life safety systems and inspects any installation, alteration, modification, or repair to any fire alarm, sprinkler or suppression system. For questions or information concerning inspections, permits or fire codes issues, please call the Fire Prevention Division at 617-466-4620. Below you will find a list of permits that the Fire Prevention Division issues as mandated by MGL Chapter 148; 527CMR (Board of Fire Prevention Regulations).

Source: https://www.chelseama.gov/departments/fire/permit_application_and_fees.phpView official code

Full Breakdown

The Chelsea Fire Department confirms that open burning is prohibited at all times in Chelsea, consistent with MassDEP 310 CMR 7.07 restrictions in densely populated communities. This ban covers all outdoor burning including leaves, brush, wood, and recreational fires. Fire pits and chimineas are not allowed unless approved by the Fire Department.

Violations & Fines

Violation: up to $500 fine plus cost of suppression, or up to 1 month imprisonment (MGL c. 48).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Chelsea?

Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Chelsea?

Open Burning: BANNED at all times. Fire Pits: NOT allowed (Fire Dept approval needed). Authority: Chelsea Fire Dept / 310 CMR 7.07. Permits: 617-466-4620.

Sources & Official References

[1]https://www.chelseama.gov/departments/fire/permit_application_and_fees.php

Other rules in Chelsea

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSignificant Restrictions Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome Restrictions Fire Pits & Backyard FiresSignificant Restrictions Smoke DetectorsSome Restrictions FireworksHeavy Restrictions Brush ClearanceFew Restrictions Parking Rules: Snow Removal Parking RulesSignificant Restrictions Parking Rules: Loading ZonesSome Restrictions Parking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSignificant Restrictions Business Licensing & Operations: Tattoo & Body ModificationSignificant Restrictions

All Chelsea rules

How Chelsea compares: Cities with the Strictest Outdoor Burning Rules·Compare Chelsea to another location·View the Massachusetts fire regulations overview

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