Outdoor Cooking in Chatham County, GA (2026)

2 rules for unincorporated Chatham County, Georgia.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Chatham County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

BBQ & Propane Rules

Backyard grilling is allowed in Chatham County. Cooking food is an express exception to the open-burning rule (Code Sec. 21-306), and standard propane grill cylinders are permit-exempt. The main limit is Georgia's Fire Code (IFC Sec. 308), which restricts charcoal and larger LP-gas grills on combustible apartment balconies.

BBQ & Propane Grill Rules in Chatham County

Some Restrictions

Chatham County Code Sec. 21-306(2)(e)

For recreational purposes or cooking food for immediate human consumption.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Smoker Rules

Backyard smokers are allowed in Chatham County; cooking food is an express exception to the open-burning ordinance (Code Sec. 21-306). No local ordinance targets smoker smoke or odor, though Georgia's Fire Code restricts charcoal and solid-fuel cookers on combustible apartment balconies. Keep smokers safely contained and attended.

Backyard Smoker Rules in Chatham County

Some Restrictions

Chatham County Code Sec. 21-306(2)(e)

For recreational purposes or cooking food for immediate human consumption.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All Chatham County ordinances

See every category we cover for Chatham County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

Chatham County Ordinance Hub →