Outdoor Cooking in Denver, CO (2026)
3 verified outdoor cooking rules for Denver, Colorado, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
BBQ & Propane Rules
Denver Fire Code (DRMC Title 9, adopting IFC 2018 with amendments) Section 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal grills and LP-gas containers over 1 lb on combustible balconies and within 10 feet of multi-family combustible construction. Single-family backyard grilling is unregulated by city code. Electric grills are exempt. Sprinklered balconies are exempted from the ban.
Denver BBQ and Propane Rules
Some RestrictionsSmoker Rules
Backyard wood and pellet smokers are allowed at single-family Denver homes but are governed by DRMC Chapter 4 (Air Pollution Control) and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) Regulation No. 4. Persistent visible smoke can be cited as a nuisance under DRMC 4-7. Multi-family balconies fall under DFC 308.1.4 prohibiting any open-flame device.
Denver Smoker Rules
Some RestrictionsOutdoor Kitchen Permits
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Denver require permits from Community Planning and Development whenever the project includes gas piping, electrical, plumbing, or a fixed structural roof under Denver Building Code 105. Detached one-story accessory structures under 200 sq ft with no utility connections may not require a building permit but still need zoning sign-off.
Denver Outdoor Kitchen Permits
Some RestrictionsLooking for Denver County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Denver city rules.
Outdoor Cooking in Denver County →