Can I use a fire pit in Brockton? What you need to know

BROCKTON — Are you having a graduation party at your house? Are you holding a barbecue this summer?

If so, you might be considering using a fire pit or chiminea at your gathering. Perhaps you've done some yard work and are considering open burning to get rid of the debris.

Yes, this is allowed in Brockton, but there are rules you need to know before doing so — and you need to be prepared ahead of time.

The Brockton Fire Department lays out the rules on the city's website, from the required permit to exactly what's allowed and when.

What is required for outdoor burning in Brockton?

An outdoor burning permit is required from the Brockton Fire Department before any kind of open flame is used in the city.

Permits are issued in accordance with regulations set forth in the city's ordinances.

People who apply for permits must provide the type of device they plan to use and where it will be placed on their property, including a sketch. Permits are subject to inspection by any firefighter or police officer.

If granted, a permit is valid for one year.

When is outdoor burning allowed?

Once a permit is obtained, burning is allowed during the hours of 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. on designated days. Fires must be extinguished by midnight.

Outdoor burning is not allowed in certain weather conditions that make it more dangerous.

Before starting a fire, permit holders are required to check if burning is allowed that day by calling the fire department or visiting the city's website.

There are several spots on the city's website, including the homepage and the fire department's subpage, that state if burning is allowed that day.

What are the rules for open burning?

In addition to having a permit, there are several considerations that need to be made when planning a fire, according to the permit application.

You are required to have at least 3 feet of clearance from any combustible material or item, including dried grass, around a chiminea or fire pit.

The device used for the fire must be located greater than 20 feet from any building or combustible construction, residential occupancy, canopy, roof or overhang.

Chimineas, fire pits and outdoor fireplaces can't be operated or stored on a balcony or deck or within 20 feet of any building or combustible construction.

State law does not allow the burning of yard waste, leaves, vines, evergreen needles, brush, trash, construction materials or branches smaller than 3 inches in diameter.

There are additional requirements outlined in the permit application and on the city's website.

Can my permit be revoked?

Yes, an open burning permit can be revoked if the burning becomes a nuisance, including any odor, emission or event that prevents the reasonable use and enjoyment of one's property, according to the application.

If the smoke or fire from a burning device is determined to be a threat to public safety or a violation of city ordinances, a permit can be revoked.

How do I apply for an open burning permit? What is the cost?

An application can be found on the city of Brockton's website.

Once completed, the application can be mailed to the fire department at 52 Pleasant St. or delivered in person to the same address between 7:30 to 9 a.m. or 4 to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Applications cost $25 and a bank check or money order is required.

Enterprise senior reporter Cody Shepard can be reached by email at cshepard@enterprisenews.com.