Outdoor Cooking in Aurora, CO (2026)
3 verified outdoor cooking rules for Aurora, Colorado, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
BBQ & Propane Rules
Aurora adopts the 2021 International Fire Code under Aurora City Code Chapter 66 (Fire Prevention and Protection). IFC 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal burners, propane grills, and other open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in multifamily buildings (Group R-1 hotels and R-2 apartments and condos). Aurora Fire Rescue specifically calls out this rule: barbecue grills are forbidden in multifamily occupancies except in fully sprinklered buildings or when fueled by a single 1-pound camping propane cylinder.
BBQ and Propane Rules in Aurora
Heavy RestrictionsSmoker Rules
Aurora has no code section specifically targeting residential smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens beyond the general IFC 308 open-flame rules adopted in Aurora City Code Chapter 66. Single-family backyard smoker use is allowed during Stage 1 burn restrictions. Charcoal and wood-burning smokers on multifamily balconies are barred under IFC 308.1.4. The Colorado Regional Air Quality Council can declare winter Action Days that restrict residential wood burning, including wood-fired smokers, in Aurora.
Smoker Rules in Aurora
Some RestrictionsOutdoor Kitchen Permits
An outdoor kitchen in Aurora typically requires a building permit when it exceeds 120 sq ft, includes a roof or pergola, or is attached to the house. Gas line extensions need a mechanical permit, electrical receptacles need an electrical permit, and any potable water and drain piping require plumbing permits. Detached accessory structures under 120 sq ft may sit within the required side and rear setbacks but must be at least 3 ft from any property line under Aurora UDO 146-4.2.3. Structures over 120 sq ft need 5 ft side and rear setbacks.
Outdoor Kitchen Permits in Aurora
Some RestrictionsLooking for Arapahoe County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Aurora city rules.
Outdoor Cooking in Arapahoe County →