A lot of us enjoy a homemade meal cooked on a barbecue, especially when the weather is nice and comfortable enough to spend some time outdoors. However, like any other open flame, heat producing piece of equipment, there is always the risk of fire when a barbecue is used. This danger is amplified in an apartment community because of the close-knit living spaces, leaving many people affected by it.  A small fire in one unit can result in fire, smoke and water damage in several neighboring units.  Due to the many barbecue fires that have occurred in apartment communities in recent years, the Fire Code now addresses this fire hazard and potential problem.

To reduce the chances of a fire starting and to help keep any fires from getting too big too fast, the Fire Code limits the amount and types of cooking fuel that can be used on apartment balconies and patios. Charcoal and wood are not allowed to be used for cooking. Propane is allowed but the amount is limited to a single one pound cylinder at a time. You will recognize this type of propane cylinder as the small green cylinders that are used with smaller barbecues, camp stoves, and lanterns. So, barbecues that use the green cylinders are fine for use on balconies and patios. Barbecues that require the larger propane cylinders can be used in common areas or open spaces that are 25 feet or more away from any building. However, the large propane cylinders cannot be stored inside apartment units, on balconies, or on patios.

Outdoor fires have restrictions that are similar to those for barbecues. Open burning or recreational fires are not allowed on apartment balconies or patios. This includes fires that are contained in small, portable fireplaces and fire pits that can be purchased at any number of stores. These fireplaces and fire pits must also be used only in open spaces that are 25 feet or more from the building.  View the Fire District’s guidance document for more specific information about barbecues and the Fire Code.