Chicopee, MA Outdoor Cooking: Smoker Rules (2026)

Section 275-49, Smokehouse, was added on 11-20-1984 and is part of the Chicopee Zoning Ordinance in Chapter 275. It governs smokehouses. It does not name portable grills or backyard smokers, so the distances and approvals below attach to the smokehouse itself.

Subsection A covers land other than farms. The use of a smokehouse can be permitted with the approval of the Board of Health and the Building Inspector and, as such, is considered an accessory use, located 75 or more feet from any street line and 100 or more feet from any dwelling. The accessory use cannot include any activity conducted for gain.

Subsection B, added on 6-21-2005 by Ord. No. 05-152, covers residential zones, where a smokehouse can be allowed by special permit subject to seven criteria. Smokehouses are allowed as accessory uses only. The use cannot dominate the site or include any activity conducted for gain. A smokehouse must be located a minimum of 75 feet from any street line and 100 or more feet from any dwelling. No use can create smoke or fire hazard to adjacent buildings or property. All smokehouses must conform to Massachusetts State Building Code requirements for fire-resistance rated construction. Applications go to the City Council in accordance with § 275-9, and all provisions of state and local regulations regarding special permits apply. Farms are exempt.

The § 275-9 process adds steps. Applications are filed with the City Clerk, and copies go to the Board of Health, Department of Planning and Development, City Engineer, Building Commissioner, Fire Department and Conservation Administrator 20 days before the public hearing. The hearing is held within 65 days after filing, the special permit granting authority acts within 90 days after the hearing, and issuing a permit takes a two-thirds vote of the City Council. A permit lapses in one year if substantial use has not begun.