Massachusetts Open-Air Fire Permit Law (M.G.L. c.48 §13)

Under M.G.L. c.48 §13, no one may set, maintain, or increase a fire in the open air anywhere in Massachusetts except by a permit from the town forest warden, the fire chief, or a city fire commissioner. Each permit covers a period not exceeding two days, and the warden may attach conditions such as allowing burning only after 4 p.m. Adults 18 or older may build a reasonable cooking fire on sandy or gravelly land free of vegetation without a permit. The state fire warden and DCR's Bureau of Forest Fire Control oversee wardens and suppress forest fires; the forester's permit rules bind statewide once approved by the governor and council.

Setting or feeding an open-air fire without a valid permit is punishable by a fine of up to $500 plus the cost of suppression, or imprisonment for up to one month, or both. A forest warden or deputy may arrest a violator without a warrant.