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Open Burning and Fire Pits

The Wakefield Fire Department allows “open burning” from January 15 to May 1 each year. Fire pits and recreational burning are allowed year-round. Each day, State fire wardens determine whether conditions are safe for burning. The weather and air quality can change rapidly and fire departments can rescind permits when that happens.

Open-Burning Permits

To obtain a permit, call the Fire Department at 781-246-6432. The open-burning permit is verbal and stored within our database; it is good for two days. You must call the Fire Department each day you intend to burn to verify the conditions are suitable, as burning is dependent on several factors including the wind and weather conditions. You will be asked to provide the Department with your name, address, and location of where you intend to burn on the property and you will be given a brief overview of regulations.

Open burning is typically permitted:

  • Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. from January 15 to May 1
  • At least 75 feet from all dwellings 

What Can Be Burned

You may burn brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris. You may not burn brush, trees, cane, or driftwood from commercial or industrial land clearing; grass, hay, leaves, stumps or tires; construction materials or demolition debris; or household trash or goods.

Burning Regulations and Safety

The Fire Department may investigate and request any fire be extinguished at the Department’s discretion.

  • Your burn pile should be as close as possible to the source of material being burned.
  • The fire must be small and manageable, no greater than 3 feet in diameter. By definition, a fire larger than 3 feet in diameter is no longer considered a cooking or recreational fire (IFC).
  • All fires must be constantly attended by a competent person until extinguished (IFC).
  • You must keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or water bucket available for quick extinguishment if necessary (IFC). A garden hose is strongly recommended.
  • Fires shall not be conducted within 75 feet of a structure or combustible materials. (DEP and SFM)
  • If weather conditions change, like an increase in wind, fires shall be extinguished accordingly.
  • A fire pit should be placed on a flat, noncombustible surface. An area of 75 feet should be cleared around the fire pit in all directions. The area must be clear of all dry vegetation, combustibles, and other materials that could burn or catch fire, both overhead and to the sides such as building components, tree limbs, sheds, awnings, etc. (DEP and SFM).
  • Open fire pits and recreational fires are not incinerators. Burning trash, rubbish, painted or stained wood, or construction debris is prohibited (DEP).
  • Open burning, fire pits, and recreational fires may create a nuisance or health hazard to your neighbors. Never use wet or damp wood. This creates needless, irritating smoke. Always use seasoned wood, charcoal, or specialist fuel (e.g. wood burning briquettes) for fire pits or recreational fires.
    • If the Wakefield Fire Department receives complaints from neighbors that the smoke or smell is bothersome, we will investigate, and if deemed necessary, you may be instructed to extinguish the fire. (MGL Chapter 148) & (527 CMR).
  • Never use an accelerant to light any fire. There have been many cases of people getting burned while trying to light a fire with a “small amounts” of gasoline or lighter fluid.
  • Environmental conditions may limit or exclude the ability to have a recreational fire. These can include bad air quality or a 4- or 5-Fire Danger classification (sometimes referred to as a “Red Flag” day). (DEP).
  • Read more safety tips from the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services

If you have any further questions related to open burning, the use of open fire pits, or recreational fires, please call the Wakefield Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Office at 781-246-6435 ext. 4 during normal business hours or send an email to dshinney@wakefield.ma.us.