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Outdoor Cooking in Bloomington, IN (2026)

1 verified outdoor cooking rules for Bloomington, Indiana, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Smoker Rules

In the City of Bloomington, backyard grills and smokers do not need a fire chief burning permit. BMC § 18.16.020 exempts outdoor fires in pits or grills used solely for the preparation of food from the citywide open burning permit requirement that otherwise covers bonfires and debris fires.

Outdoor Grills and Smokers Exempt in Bloomington

Few Restrictions

Bloomington Municipal Code § 18.16.020

No person shall kindle or maintain any bonfire or open burning, or authorize any such fire to be kindled or maintained within the city limits without permit or proper authorization from the fire chief. ... Exception: These restrictions do not prohibit outdoor fires in pits or grills used solely for the preparation of food.