How Roswell Handles Outdoor Cooking: A Practical Guide
Roswell maintains 130 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with outdoor cooking. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Roswell falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
BBQ & Propane Rules
Roswell limits outdoor cooking fires to a pit, grill or barbeque no more than 3 feet across with 2 feet of fuel, kept 10 feet from any structure, unless it's a grill or smoker at a one- or two-family home.
Key details: Grill/pit size limit: Max 3 ft across, 2 ft high. Clearance from structures: At least 10 feet required. 1-2 family homes: Exempt from size and clearance limits. Exceeding limits: Requires a fire department permit.
Violations of § 8.3.15 are punishable by a fine of $25.00 to $500.00 per offense under § 8.3.15(g), with each day of continuing violation a separate offense; violators are also liable for fire department response costs.
Outdoor Kitchen Permits
Roswell's Unified Development Code classifies an outdoor kitchen, defined as a permanent outdoor or covered area used for food preparation, as a zoning use under UDC § 9.7.17. It's a Permitted Use by right in most single-family districts, but only a Limited Use, triggering a parking standard, in RM-2/RM-3 multi-family, most Corridor and Nodes, and Employment districts, and barred outright in Civic and Open Space Districts.
Key details: Governing section: UDC § 9.7.17. Parking required: 1 space per 300 sq ft. By-right districts: AG-43 through R-TH (10 districts). Limited-use districts: RM-2, RM-3, Corridor/Nodes, Employment. Prohibited in: Civic and Open Space Districts.
Under UDC § 13.14.3, the City issues a written notice of violation describing the defect and giving 30 days to correct it (24 hours if it endangers public health or safety), appealable in writing within 30 days. Remedies under § 13.14.4 include citation, withholding permits, licenses, utility service or a certificate of occupancy, and suspending or revoking any UDC permit. Fines reach $2,000 per day, with each day of continued violation a separate offense.
The Bottom Line
Roswell's outdoor cooking rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Roswell is broadly strict or permissive.
Keep in mind that Roswell can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.