The Commonwealth of Massachusetts regulates burning season for the Town of Cheshire, as well as all cities and towns in the Commonwealth.
Burning season is open from January 15th through May 1st every year.
NO OPEN BURNING BEFORE OR AFTER THESE DATES
The following regulations apply during open burning season:
- Can only burn brush that is less than 4 inches in diameter.
- Must be at least 75 feet away from any structure
- Water hose must be close by the fire in case of emergencies
- NO BURNING OF CONSTRUCTION DEBRIS OF ANY KIND!
- NO BURNING OF GRASS OR LEAVES!
- Residents must obtain a permit to burn the day before or the day of the burn. Please do not request a permit too far in advance of the date you want to burn.
There are many rumors about rules regarding open burning season. One of the more prevalent rumors is a resident can avoid the open burning laws if they are using the fire for cooking purposes. The Cheshire Fire Chief, per Massachusetts General Laws, has the right to deem ANY outside fire a “nuisance” fire, and order the homeowner to extinguish the fire. If the homeowner does not comply, the Town of Cheshire has a monetary fine system in place to deter illegal burning.
First Offense: Written warning
Second Offense: $100 fine
Third Offense: $500 fine
Fourth Offense: Criminal Summons Issued
During Open Burning season, a burning permit can be obtained by contacting an officer with the Cheshire Fire Dept. The officer’s names and phone numbers follow. Please plan accordingly to obtain a permit.
Fire Chief Tom Francesconi |
743-1957 |
Assistant Chief Bob Lamb |
743-3625 |
Assistant Chief Jason Mendonca |
743-2429 |
Assistant Chief Mike Biagini |
281-9131 |
Captain Shawn Martin |
743-5025 |
Captain Kim Martin |
743-5168 |
Captain Corey Swistak |
743-3279 |
Please do not leave a message at the fire station to obtain a permit. The Commonwealth regulates burning on a daily basis during extreme drought or severe weather conditions. Because of this, residents must speak to an officer directly to be advised of the daily conditions.
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