Navigating Apartment Grilling Regulations and Restrictions

Just because you live in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a good homemade barbeque. This article discusses everything you need to know about apartment grilling so you can safely and lawfully grill on your balcony or patio.

Can I Grill In My Apartment?

It depends on where you live.

Some states allow grilling under specific conditions, while others have strict regulations to prevent potential fire outbreaks.

Generally, most US counties prohibit the use of grills in apartment buildings, patios, and balconies under the IFC (International Fire Code) rules and regulations.

According to the IFC, charcoal and gas grills mustn’t be used on “combustible balconies” or “within 10 feet of combustible construction.” This regulation applies to all home types except one-and two-family dwellings, including condominiums, apartments, and townhouses.

The only exception to this rule is if your balcony has an automatic sprinkler system within 10 feet of the grilling location.

However, you can’t just install a sprinkler and think you’re good to go.

You still need special permission from the Fire Marshal’s office to ensure your grilling area meets all safety requirements.

You’ll also have to check with your property manager, homeowner’s association, or landlord to see if they allow apartment grilling.

Even if the fire department gives you the go-ahead, you won’t be able to proceed if your building bans apartment grilling.

Does That Mean I’m Not Allowed to Grill In My Apartment?

Not exactly.

The IFC fire regulation only applies to charcoal grills, wood grills, gas grills, and any other grill type that produces open flames.

UL-listed electric grills—i.e., grills that meet scientific safety, quality, or security standards—don’t fall under this category because they don’t produce open flames or excessive smoke. The same is said with indoor grill pans and electric griddles.

Even so, it’s still worth checking with your apartment management to review any specific rules or guidelines they have in place regarding apartment grilling. Just because electric grills are generally permitted doesn’t mean they’re allowed in every apartment complex.

Can I Store My Charcoal/Gas Grill Inside My Apartment or On My Balcony?

The IFC permits the storage of charcoal grills in apartment buildings/balconies so long as the charcoal is removed from the grill and stored in a separate location.

As for gas grills, tanks must be stored in a detached, fire-rated storage building.

If your apartment doesn’t have a separate fire-rated storage building, storing propane tanks within the apartment is prohibited.

Propane tanks are susceptible to leaks and thus pose a significant fire hazard if kept inside the apartment.

Storing propane tanks outside (on the balcony or the rooftop patio) may potentially reduce this risk due to better ventilation, but there’s still the issue of exposure to weather elements, accidental damage, or unauthorized tampering.

A nearby grill or other source of ignition could also pose a risk if a leak occurs.

Safety Tips for Apartment Grilling

Electric grills are generally considered the safest option for apartment grilling because they don’t have the same open flame risks as charcoal and propane grills.

Still, you shouldn’t compromise on safety.

Here are some key tips to remember when using an electric grill on your apartment balcony:

• Familiarize yourself with the electric grill’s instructions and safety precautions before plugging it in. In this way, you’ll be able to react quickly if something goes awry with the electric grill.
• Never use an outdoor grill inside your apartment, even if it’s an electric grill. Smoke and flames produced by outdoor grills, no matter how minimal, can produce toxic amounts of carbon monoxide and start fires.
• Figure out where to position your grill. Ideally, your grill should be at least 10 feet away from building walls, structures, and combustible items (trees, furniture, rubber, etc.).
• Always have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of grease flare-ups. If you don’t have a fire extinguisher, keep a bucket of water or dry sand close to your cooking area.
• Don’t leave your grill plugged in and unattended, even after you’ve taken the food off the grill. Unplug the grill and let it cool before storing it away in a safe place.
• Never clean your electric grill while the plug is still in. Doing so increases the risk of electrocution.
• Clean your grill after each use. Grease build-up, food particles, and debris can cause flare-ups, which not only impact the flavor of your food but also potentially pose a fire hazard.

Final Thoughts

Most US states forbid the use of charcoal grills, wood grills, and gas grills in apartment buildings.

The only exception to this rule is electric grills, as they don’t produce as much smoke and are safe to use in confined spaces like apartment balconies.

Make sure to follow the safety guidelines listed above so you can enjoy grilling safely and within the guidelines of your state and apartment complex.