Outdoor Cooking in Dakota County, MN (2026)
2 rules for unincorporated Dakota County, Minnesota.
Verified from official government sources
BBQ & Propane Rules
The Minnesota State Fire Code bans open-flame grilling on balconies and within 15 feet of buildings with three or more units. Detached single-family homes may grill freely, but propane tanks over 1 pound must be stored outdoors. Cities set apartment-grill exceptions.
BBQ and Propane Grill Rules in Dakota County, MN
Some RestrictionsMN State Fire Code, Appendix O (DPS SFM guidance)
In any structure containing three or more dwelling units, no person shall kindle, maintain, or cause any fire or open flame on any balcony above ground level or any ground floor patio within 15 feet of a structure.
Smoker Rules
A backyard smoker is treated as a cooking device, not open burning, so it needs no DNR permit. But like grills, charcoal and gas smokers are banned on balconies and within 15 feet of buildings with three or more units under the Minnesota State Fire Code. Single-family use is unrestricted.
Backyard Smoker Rules in Dakota County, MN
Some RestrictionsMN DNR Burning Permit rules
A permit is not needed... for a fire contained in a charcoal grill, camp stove, or other device designed for cooking or heating.
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