BBQ & Propane Rules: Fairfield vs Vallejo

Can I use a propane grill on my apartment balcony in Fairfield?

Only if the building is sprinklered, the balcony is non-combustible (concrete/steel), or you use a small 1-lb camping-style propane device. Otherwise CFC §308.1.4 prohibits it and your landlord may enforce it as a lease violation.

Are charcoal grills banned on Red Flag warning days in Fairfield?

The Fairfield Fire Department may issue temporary restrictions during declared Red Flag warnings. Check the Fire Department website or social media before grilling on high-risk fire days. Indoor cooking and propane grills with non-combustible surfaces are usually still allowed.

Can I use a propane or charcoal grill at my house in unincorporated Solano County?

Yes. There is no special county barbecue ordinance, and one- and two-family dwellings are exempt from the California Fire Code's balcony grill restrictions. Just keep your grill a safe distance from the house and any dry vegetation, especially on high fire-danger or red-flag days in the wildfire-prone western county.

Can I grill on my apartment balcony?

Usually not. Under California Fire Code 308.1.4, charcoal grills and propane grills with containers over 2.5 pounds water capacity cannot be used on a combustible balcony or within 10 feet of combustible construction in multi-family buildings, unless the building has automatic sprinklers. Check with your property manager, who may ban balcony grilling entirely.