5) Recreational Fires

Outdoor Fire Pit Regulations

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING IN FULL

Fire Pits must be used appropriately; when use is altered, fire pits will be subject to Mass DEP open burning regulation. Open burning season is from January to May and requires a permit.

At single family dwellings (with the owner’s permission), there are no special permits required in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for the use of outdoor fire pits, cooking, or recreational fires. There are however, several requirements based on the Department of Environmental Protection regulations (DEP), the Massachusetts State Fire Laws & Codes (ML Chapter 148 & 527 CMR), the 2009 International Fire Code (IFC) and the State Fire Marshal (SFM):

- Fire must be small and manageable, no greater than 3 feet in diameter. A fire larger than 3 feet in diameter is no longer considered a cooking or recreational fire (IFC). Flames shall be a maximum of 2 feet above ground level.

- All fires must be constantly attended by a competent person (18 years and older) until the fire is extinguished

- A fire extinguisher, garden hose, or water bucket must be available for quick extinguishment if necessary (IFC)

- Fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or any combustible materials (IFC)

- The fire pit shall be placed on a flat, noncombustible surface. An area of 50 feet should be cleared around the fire pit in all directions, and clear of all dry vegetation and combustibles. Make sure the fire pit is placed away from other materials that could burn or catch fire, paying attention to overhead and side exposure areas (IFC and SFM)

- The burning of trash, painted or stained wood and construction debris is prohibited by the DEP. Never use wet or damp wood; this creates needless, irritating smoke. Always use dry seasoned wood, charcoal, or specialist fuel

- Never use an accelerant to light any fire

- Environmental condition will limit or exclude the use of Recreational Fire such as bad air quality, or a 4 or 5 Fire Danger classifications (DEP)

- Should the fire cause nuisance to neighbors or surrounding areas, the Boxford Fire Department will investigate, and determine if the fire will be extinguished (MGL Chapter 148) & (527 CMR)

Burn will be halted at Fire Officer’s discretion for violation of any regulation

You are required to call the Communications Center prior to the start of your fire (978) 887-8136

The Fire Department strongly suggests you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when using any above-ground fire pit or chiminea.