Outdoor Cooking in Contra Costa County, CA (2026)
1 county-level rule, plus city-specific rules for 3 cities in Contra Costa County, California.
Verified from official government sources
Smoker Rules
In unincorporated Contra Costa County, charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices may not be used on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction, per the county's amended California Fire Code Section 4104.2. The rule exempts residential occupancies, sprinkler-protected buildings, and small LP-gas grills using containers of 2.5 pounds water capacity or less.
Contra Costa County Open-Flame Cooking Rule
Light RestrictionsContra Costa County Ordinance No. 2025-14, § 4104.2 (2025 CA Fire Code Local Amendments, Ch. 41 Temporary Heating and Cooking Operations)
4104.2 Open-flame cooking devices. Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction. Exceptions: 1. Residential occupancies 2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system. 3. LP-gas cooking devices having LP-gas container with a water capacity not g...
Outdoor Cooking by City in Contra Costa County
3 cities in Contra Costa County have their own outdoor cooking rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
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