Open Burning/Recreational Burning Rules and Regulations

Open Burning /Recreational Burning Rules and Regulations

Recreational Burning:

Anyone conducting illegal burning, or who allows a fire to get out of control, may be held liable for costs of extinguishing the fire, fined, and even imprisoned (MGL c.48 s.13).

If your fire gets out of control or if you have an emergency CALL 911

Gas fired Recreational Fire Pits 

The use of outdoor gas-fueled appliances, permanent or portable, as a recreational fire pit, is allowed under the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code (527 CMR 1.0).

• The appliance must be used in compliance with the manufacturer’s listing and labeling (use of the appliance as it is intended to be used).
• The owner/user must have the manual to the appliance in their possession so the Fire Officer can make a determination on whether it is being used as designed.
• The appliance can only be used by the property owner or by someone else with written permission of the owner. 

If Haverhill Fire Department receives a complaint and the above criteria cannot be met the appliance will be turned off and not used until a Fire Prevention Officer can review and approve the use of that appliance. It will be the owner’s responsibility to contact the Haverhill Fire Prevention Office to get that approval.

Any questions, please get in touch with the Fire Chief's office at 978-373-8460