Massachusetts § 142H - Ceremonial bonfires restricted; permits
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 142H — Ceremonial bonfires restricted; permits, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 142H. Ceremonial bonfires restricted; permits
Section 142H. The city council of a city with the approval of its mayor, or the board of selectmen or town council of a town, may authorize the fire department of such city or town to issue not more than one permit in any one year for a ceremonial bonfire in such city or town. Said ceremonial bonfire shall mark the observance of a significant municipal, state, or national event, and any such ceremonial bonfire shall be under the continuous supervision of the fire department. A permit for such a ceremonial bonfire shall be issued only to a municipal department or a civic, fraternal or veterans organization within such city or town. Only wood which has not been painted, impregnated, or otherwise treated with any foreign substance shall be permitted to burn in ceremonial bonfires. No ceremonial bonfire shall burn for more than twelve hours.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 142H
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 142H cover?
Section 142H ("Ceremonial bonfires restricted; permits") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 142H?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 142H" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 142H apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.