Fire pits, chimineas and outdoor fireplaces for recreational use have become popular over the past few years. However, smoke emissions from these pits can cause potential or even actual health or nuisance problems for abutters and other neighbors.
The Lynnfield Fire Department allows the use of fire pits, chimineas and outdoor fireplaces provided the following conditions are met:
- The fire must be small and manageable, no greater than three feet in diameter. By definition, a fire larger than three feet is no longer considered a cooking or recreational fire. All fires must be constantly attended by a competent person until extinguished.
- A hose connected to a water supply or an extinguisher capable of extinguishing the fire must be readily available for use.
- The fire pit, chimineas, or fireplace shall be on a non-combustible surface at grade level and not under any type of overhang, roof, or tree limb.
- Fires shall not be located within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material. Any condition that could cause fire to spread within this area shall be removed.
- The fire and/or smoke cannot pose a hazard to any property.
- The smoke from any device cannot create a nuisance or health hazard to the neighborhood.
- Do not burn wet or unseasoned wood. Only ordinary dry clean firewood is to be burned. Fire pits and recreational fires ARE NOT INCINERATORS; No construction debris, painted or stained wood, leaves, household trash, hazardous waste, or chemicals may be burned at any time.
- Be safe – never use flammable fluids to start your fire.
If a complaint or concern is issued, the responding fire department personnel will determine the hazard or nuisance to the public and take the appropriate action.
Members of the Lynnfield Fire Department have the authority to remedy any situation that in his or her opinion is likely to cause a fire or creates a nuisance. With that understanding, the use of these devices is taken on an individual basis.
The Fire Department will require that a recreational fire be immediately extinguished and discontinued if it is determined that the fire constitutes a hazardous condition, health issue or a nuisance.
Questions? Phone 781-334-8118 or email fireprevention@lynnfieldfd.org.
