Outdoor Cooking in West Des Moines, IA (2026)
2 verified outdoor cooking rules for West Des Moines, Iowa, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
BBQ & Propane Rules
In the City of West Des Moines, propane cylinders and cooking devices used at apartment buildings or condominiums cannot be stored inside the living unit, under City Code § 4-3-4 amending International Fire Code § 308.1.11; one and two-family dwellings and townhouses are exempt.
West Des Moines Balcony Propane Storage Rule
Some RestrictionsWest Des Moines City Code § 4-3-4 (amending IFC § 308.1.11)
Amend section 308.1.11 Open-flame Cooking Devices. ... Cooking devices and/or propane cylinders shall not be stored inside the living unit of apartment buildings and/or condominiums. ... Exception: One and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
Smoker Rules
In the City of West Des Moines, barbeque grills and other devices that produce ashes or embers cannot be operated or stored within 20 feet of multi-story buildings such as apartment buildings and condominiums, under City Code § 4-3-4 amending International Fire Code § 308.1.11.
West Des Moines Grill Distance Rule
Some RestrictionsWest Des Moines City Code § 4-3-4 (amending IFC § 308.1.11)
Amend section 308.1.11 Open-flame Cooking Devices. No barbeque grills or other devices which produce ashes or embers shall be operated or stored within 20 feet of multi-story buildings, such as apartment buildings and/or condominiums.