BBQ & Propane Rules: Bellevue vs Seattle
How do bbq & propane rules rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Seattle, WA?
Bellevue and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Bellevue, WA
King County
Bellevue allows propane and gas barbecues at single-family homes following manufacturer separation distances from structures. On occupied roofs of multi-family Group R-2 buildings, BCC 23.11 (adopting the International Fire Code) limits portable LPG containers to a maximum 16.4 ounces (1 lb) per cylinder. Open burning is prohibited at all times citywide.
View full Bellevue rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle Fire Code Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas containers larger than 1 lb on combustible balconies of multi-family buildings (3+ units) when within 10 feet of combustible construction. Electric grills are exempt. Single-family backyards have no city restrictions beyond fire-safety setbacks from buildings.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Code Authority | BCC 23.11 / WA Fire Code | - |
| Single-Family | Manufacturer setbacks | - |
| R-2 Balcony Setback | 10 ft from combustibles | - |
| R-2 Roof LPG Limit | 16.4 oz (1 lb) max | - |
| Open Burning | Prohibited citywide | - |
| PSCAA Bans | Propane/gas exempt | - |
| Code Section | - | SFC 308.1.4 |
| Multi-Family Ban | - | 3+ unit buildings |
| Distance Rule | - | 10 ft from combustible |
| LP-Gas Indoor Limit | - | 1 lb cylinder |
| Sprinkler Exception | - | Yes (auto sprinkler) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
Can I use a propane BBQ on my Bellevue apartment balcony?
Only if you are at least 10 feet from combustible construction (IFC 308), which most balconies do not satisfy. On occupied roofs of R-2 apartments, only 1-lb (16.4 oz) cylinders are allowed. Larger 20-lb tanks are not permitted in those settings under BCC 23.11.
Does the PSCAA burn ban stop me from grilling?
No. PSCAA Stage 1 and Stage 2 burn bans target wood and solid-fuel burning. Propane and natural gas barbecues are exempt because they burn clean. Wood chunks in a smoker, however, are not exempt during a Stage 2 ban.
Seattle FAQ
Can I grill on my Seattle apartment balcony?
Only an electric grill, in most cases. SFC 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal, propane, and other open-flame devices on balconies of 3+ unit buildings within 10 feet of combustible construction unless the balcony has automatic sprinklers.
How big a propane tank can I store at home in Seattle?
Outdoors, up to 100 lb water capacity (a standard 20 lb BBQ tank fits easily) located at least 5 feet from doors, windows, and openings into combustible buildings per SFC 6109.6. Indoors, only 1 lb non-refillable cylinders.
Are charcoal grills allowed in single-family yards?
Yes. SFC 308.1.4 does not apply to single-family or duplex homes. You must keep open burning at least 15 feet from any building (SFC 307.4) and check for burn bans called by Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.
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