BBQ & Propane Rules: Mesa vs Tempe
How do bbq & propane rules rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Mesa and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa Fire and Medical Department enforces the International Fire Code under Mesa City Code Title 7 (Fire Regulations). IFC 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame and charcoal cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of multi-family buildings. LP-gas containers larger than 2.5 lb water capacity are prohibited on multi-family combustible balconies. Single-family detached homes are not restricted.
View full Mesa rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe Fire Medical Rescue Department enforces the International Fire Code through Tempe City Code Chapter 13. IFC 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame and charcoal cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of multi-family buildings, and prohibits LP-gas containers larger than 2.5 lb water capacity on combustible balconies. Single-family detached homes are not restricted. Maricopa County Air Quality Rule 314 declares PM-10 No Burn Days that prohibit charcoal grills; gas and propane are exempt.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Code Authority | Mesa Code Title 7 + IFC | Tempe City Code Ch. 13 + 2018 IFC |
| Multi-Family Charcoal | 10 ft from combustible construction | 10 ft from combustible construction |
| LP-Gas on Balcony | 2.5 lb max | 2.5 lb max |
| No Burn Days | Charcoal prohibited; gas exempt | Charcoal prohibited; gas exempt |
| Single-Family | Not restricted by IFC 308.1.4 | Not restricted by IFC 308.1.4 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
Can I use a propane grill on my Mesa apartment balcony?
Generally no. IFC 308.1.4 (adopted under Mesa Code Title 7) prohibits LP-gas devices with containers larger than 2.5 lb water capacity on combustible balconies in buildings with three or more units. Sprinklered buildings may qualify for an exception. Check with property management and Mesa Fire before use.
Can I grill on a No Burn Day in Mesa?
Gas and propane grills are exempt from Maricopa County's PM-10 No Burn Day restrictions. Charcoal grills and wood-burning smokers are prohibited on No Burn Days under Maricopa County Air Quality Rule 314. Check the daily forecast at maricopa.gov/aq before lighting solid fuel.
Tempe FAQ
Can I use a propane grill on my Tempe apartment balcony?
Generally no. IFC 308.1.4 (adopted through Tempe City Code Chapter 13) prohibits LP-gas devices with containers larger than 2.5 lb water capacity on combustible balconies in buildings with three or more units. Sprinklered buildings may qualify for an exception. ASU-area apartments enforce this strictly - check with property management and Tempe Fire before use.
Can I grill on a No Burn Day in Tempe?
Gas and propane grills are exempt from Maricopa County's PM-10 No Burn Day restrictions. Charcoal grills and wood-burning smokers are prohibited on No Burn Days under Maricopa County Air Quality Rule 314. Check the daily forecast at maricopa.gov/aq before lighting solid fuel.
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