BBQ & Propane Rules: Camarillo vs Ventura
How do bbq & propane rules rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Ventura, CA?
Camarillo and Ventura have similar restriction levels.
Camarillo, CA
Ventura County
Camarillo adopts the California Fire Code by reference in CMC Title 16, which generally prohibits the use of open-flame charcoal and propane grills on combustible balconies, decks, and within 10 feet of multi-family combustible construction. Single-family backyard use of BBQs is allowed subject to the general nuisance and fire-safety provisions.
View full Camarillo rules →Ventura, CA
Ventura County
Backyard barbecuing at single-family homes in unincorporated Ventura County is generally allowed and unlicensed, but follows the adopted California Fire Code (2022 CFC, VCFPD Ordinance 32). CFC §308.1.4 bars charcoal/open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 ft of combustibles, with exceptions for one- and two-family and sprinklered buildings. Small propane BBQ cylinders are exempt from separation distances.
View full Ventura rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| Code Reference | CMC 16.04; CFC 308.1.4 | - |
| Multi-Family Balcony | 10-foot clearance required | - |
| Single-Family | Exempt from 10-foot rule | - |
| Sprinklered Building | Exception applies | - |
| Max LPG Cylinder | 20 lb water capacity | - |
| Fire Authority | Ventura County Fire (805-389-9700) | - |
| Governing code | - | California Fire Code §308 (2022; VCFPD Ord. 32) |
| Balcony/combustible rule | - | No charcoal/open-flame within 10 ft of combustibles (CFC §308.1.4) |
| Single-family homes | - | Exempt from the §308.1.4 balcony restriction |
| Propane BBQ cylinder | - | Exempt from container separation distances |
| High fire danger | - | Open flame may be restricted (Red Flag Warnings) |
| HOA/landlord rules | - | May add balcony grilling limits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Camarillo FAQ
Can I use a propane grill on my Camarillo apartment balcony?
No, unless the building is fully sprinklered or the balcony is non-combustible (concrete). California Fire Code Section 308.1.4, adopted by CMC 16.04, prohibits open-flame cooking devices within 10 feet of combustible construction in multi-family buildings.
Can I use a charcoal grill in my Camarillo backyard?
Yes — single-family homes and duplexes are exempt from the 10-foot rule. You must still keep the grill away from combustibles, never operate it indoors or in a garage, and follow Ventura County Fire's red-flag-day restrictions during high fire weather.
How big can my propane tank be at home in Camarillo?
A single LPG cylinder of no more than 20 pounds water capacity (the standard exchange-tank size) is allowed per residence under CFC 6104. Larger cylinders or multiple cylinders require additional fire-code review.
Ventura FAQ
Can I use a propane or charcoal grill at my house?
Yes. At one- and two-family dwellings, grilling in your own yard is generally allowed. The California Fire Code §308.1.4 balcony/10-ft combustible restriction has an exception for one- and two-family dwellings.
Can I grill on my apartment or condo balcony?
Generally no for charcoal or open-flame devices. CFC §308.1.4 prohibits operating them on combustible balconies or within 10 ft of combustible construction unless the building is sprinklered. Check your HOA or lease too.
Are there propane storage limits for my BBQ tank?
Small portable cylinders such as a 20-lb BBQ tank fall below the California Fire Code Chapter 61 threshold requiring separation distances, so the standard setbacks don't apply when used and stored in compliance.
Compare other topics
See how Camarillo and Ventura compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool