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Outdoor Cooking in Colorado Springs, CO (2026)

3 verified outdoor cooking rules for Colorado Springs, Colorado, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

BBQ & Propane Rules

Colorado Springs Fire Department enforces the 2021 International Fire Code adopted under City Code Chapter 12.4. IFC § 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas containers larger than 1 lb on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction at multi-family buildings. Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) overlay properties face seasonal fire restrictions. CSFD declares Stage 1/2 fire bans that limit residential charcoal use.

Colorado Springs BBQ and Propane Grill Rules

Some Restrictions

Smoker Rules

Colorado Springs has no smoker-specific ordinance, but wood-burning smokers, pellet grills, and wood-fired ovens are subject to seasonal Fire Restrictions issued by CSFD and to the WUI overlay rules for properties in the Wildland Urban Interface. Stage 1 bans typically prohibit wood smokers; pellet/propane smokers are usually still allowed. Nuisance smoke can be cited under City Code Ch. 9.5.

Colorado Springs Backyard Smoker Rules

Some Restrictions

Outdoor Kitchen Permits

Built-in outdoor kitchens in Colorado Springs require building, gas, electrical, and plumbing permits through the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD). Structures must comply with UDC § 7.4 accessory structure setbacks (typically 5 ft side, 15 ft rear). Properties in the Wildland Urban Interface overlay face additional ignition-resistant material requirements under the 2021 IWUIC. Historic Old Colorado City and Old North End require Historic Preservation Board review.

Colorado Springs Outdoor Kitchen Permits

Some Restrictions

Looking for El Paso County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Colorado Springs city rules.

Outdoor Cooking in El Paso County