JACKSON, N.J. — Residents planning Lag B’Omer bonfires in Jackson Township must now apply for permits and follow strict safety rules, as local fire officials warn that non-compliant fires will be shut down.
The Jackson Fire Bureaus announced they are accepting permit applications for the holiday, which begins the evening of May 4 and ends May 5, 2026, a time when bonfires are traditionally part of community celebrations.
Permits required ahead of holiday celebrations
Fire officials say all bonfires require a permit and inspection, with applications due at least seven days before the event.
Permits must be filed as Type 1 bonfires or campfires, and organizers must provide details including the planned ignition time and the responsible party overseeing the fire.
Any fires without permits will be extinguished by responding personnel, and summonses may be issued, according to the Jackson Fire Bureaus.
An unpaid $54 permit fee can also result in cancellation of the event.
Size, duration, and location strictly limited
The township has outlined detailed requirements governing bonfire size and placement.
Fires cannot exceed 3 feet by 3 feet by 3 feet unless specifically approved by a fire official, and they may not burn longer than three hours.
Officials also require bonfires to be set at least 25 feet away from any structure and built only with seasoned hardwood unless otherwise authorized.
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Key Points
• Jackson Township requires permits for all Lag B’Omer bonfires by late April
• Fires limited to 3x3x3 feet and maximum three-hour burn time
• Violations may lead to fines, extinguished fires, or canceled events
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Safety rules emphasize supervision and fire control
The guidelines prohibit the use of flammable liquids and require that approved extinguishing methods—such as a garden hose—be in place before ignition.
A responsible adult must supervise the fire at all times and remain on site for at least 30 minutes after it is extinguished.
Officials stress that fires must be fully extinguished and that ashes should never be placed in trash containers.
Children must be kept at a safe distance, and attendees are required to follow all instructions from fire officials.
Weather conditions could impact approvals
The Jackson Fire Bureaus also noted that permits may be denied if weather conditions make open burning unsafe, particularly if restrictions are issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection or the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.
This adds another layer of uncertainty for residents planning events, especially during periods of dry or windy weather.
Community guidance and support
Fire officials say the goal is to ensure celebrations remain both safe and compliant, emphasizing planning and vigilance as key factors in preventing accidents.
Residents with questions can contact their local fire district offices, including Jackson Fire Districts 2, 3, and 4.
Current status
Permit applications are now open ahead of the May 4 start of Lag B’Omer, and officials urge residents to apply early and follow all guidelines to avoid enforcement actions or cancellations.
