BBQ & Propane Rules: Scottsdale vs Tempe
How do bbq & propane rules rules compare between Scottsdale, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Scottsdale and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale has adopted the International Fire Code through the Scottsdale Revised Code, enforced by Scottsdale Fire Department. IFC Sec. 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal burners and LP-gas grills with cylinders over 1-pound water capacity from being operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction on multi-family buildings (Group R-2). One- and two-family dwellings are exempt. Sprinklered buildings have an exception.
View full Scottsdale 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 | Scottsdale | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | Scottsdale Revised Code / IFC Sec. 308.1.4 | - |
| Multi-Family Limit | 1 lb LP-gas / no charcoal on balcony | - |
| Setback | 10 ft from combustible construction | - |
| Sprinkler Exception | Yes | - |
| One/Two-Family Exemption | Yes | - |
| Red Flag Restrictions | Possible in extreme fire weather | - |
| Code Authority | - | Tempe City Code Ch. 13 + 2018 IFC |
| Multi-Family Charcoal | - | 10 ft from combustible construction |
| LP-Gas on Balcony | - | 2.5 lb max |
| Single-Family | - | Not restricted by IFC 308.1.4 |
| No Burn Days | - | Charcoal prohibited; gas exempt |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Scottsdale FAQ
Can I use a propane grill on my Scottsdale apartment balcony?
Generally no with a 20-pound tank. The International Fire Code Sec. 308.1.4 as adopted by Scottsdale limits LP-gas cylinders to nominal 1 pound on combustible multi-family balconies. Sprinklered buildings have an exception, but many Scottsdale apartment leases additionally prohibit all balcony grilling regardless of fuel.
Can I grill in my Scottsdale single-family backyard?
Yes. IFC Sec. 308.1.4 exempts one- and two-family dwellings from the multi-family balcony rules. Use standard propane and charcoal grills in your yard while keeping them clear of combustible structures, fences, eaves, and dry desert vegetation as a safety best practice.
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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