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Outdoor Cooking in Winston-Salem, NC (2026)

3 verified outdoor cooking rules for Winston-Salem, North Carolina, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

BBQ & Propane Rules

Winston-Salem enforces the 2018 NC Fire Prevention Code. NCFC 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal burners and open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 ft of combustible construction at multi-family buildings. LP-gas cylinders over 2.5 lb are prohibited within 10 ft. One- and two-family dwellings and sprinklered buildings are exempt.

Winston-Salem Grill and Propane Rules (NCFC 308.1.4)

Heavy Restrictions

Smoker Rules

Winston-Salem has no ordinance specifically targeting backyard smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens at single- or two-family homes. The Chapter 46 noise/nuisance ordinance and NC air-quality rules under 15A NCAC 02D govern excessive smoke. At multi-family buildings, charcoal or wood-fired smokers must comply with NCFC 308.1.4 clearance from combustible construction.

Winston-Salem Backyard Smoker and Pellet Grill Rules

Few Restrictions

Outdoor Kitchen Permits

Built-in outdoor kitchens in Winston-Salem require permits for gas lines, electrical, plumbing, and any roofed structure under NCGS 160D-1110. Building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits are issued separately. Gas piping requires an NC-licensed contractor. Accessory structures must comply with UDO setback rules.

Winston-Salem Outdoor Kitchen Permits (NCGS 160D-1110)

Some Restrictions