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Outdoor Cooking in Modesto, CA (2026)

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

Verified from official government sources

BBQ & Propane Rules

Modesto's Fire Code amendment to the LP-gas permit rule exempts residential barbecue propane containers from a permit only if they hold no more than 5 gallons of water capacity and are used and stored outside of buildings. Larger residential tanks fall under the City's general LP-gas permit and installation rules instead.

Modesto Caps Residential BBQ Propane at 5 Gallons

Some Restrictions

Modesto Code of Ordinances § 3-1.226

Permit(s) shall be required as set forth in Sections 105.5 and 105.6. EXCEPTION: 1. Residential occupancies. Containers shall not exceed five (5) gallons water capacity used for "barbecue" cooking, when used and stored outside of buildings. 2. Approved containers not exceeding sixteen and four-tenths (16.4) ounces when displayed for sale in mercantile occupancies. 3. Factory installed container...

Looking for Stanislaus County county-wide rules?

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

Outdoor Cooking in Stanislaus County