Order of Notice
November 8, 2024 2:00 PM
Temporary Ban on Open Burning Due to Hazardous Conditions
To all residents, property owners, and businesses within the jurisdiction of West Springfield:
Pursuant to section 10.10.2 of the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code, the West Springfield Fire Department is issuing an
immediate ban on all forms of open burning within the Town of West Springfield due to hazardous fire conditions. This action is taken to protect public health and safety, property, and to prevent the potential spread of fire.
Reasons for the Ban
The following conditions have been identified as contributing to an elevated fire risk in our area:
● Current and projected drought conditions
● Unseasonably high temperatures
● Wind conditions contributing to fire spread
● Very dry fuel conditions including leaf litter and dead wood
● Very dry ground surface conditions
Given these conditions, any form of open burning—including, but not limited to, brush burning, bonfires, fire pits, cooking fires and recreational fires—poses a substantial risk of uncontrolled fire spread, endangering life, property, and natural resources.
Scope of the Ban
Effective immediately, and until further notice,
all open burning is prohibited within the jurisdiction of West Springfield, including:
● Brush burning and debris burning
● Recreational fires, bonfires, and campfires including use of chimineas and outdoor fireplaces
● Cooking fires that do not use enclosed grills or propane appliances
● Any other form of open flame outdoors, regardless of purpose
Duration of the Ban
This temporary ban will remain in effect until further notice. The Fire Department will continually monitor conditions and will issue an official notice when the ban is lifted.
Enforcement and Penalties
Violation of this ban is subject to penalties as provided by Massachusetts General Laws and local ordinances. Enforcement actions, including fines, will be applied to those who disregard this order.
Alternatives for Cooking and Heating
Residents are encouraged to use safe alternatives for outdoor cooking and heating, including:
- Enclosed propane or charcoal grills for cooking purposes only
- Electric outdoor heating appliances, where applicable, safe, and meeting applicable code.
We ask for your cooperation and compliance with this order to ensure the safety of our community. Your attention to this matter and adherence to the ban on open burning are critical to preventing fires during this period of elevated risk. For questions regarding this notice, please contact the West Springfield Fire Department at 413-732-2650.
Issued By:
C.J. Bartone
Fire Chief, West Springfield
