Outdoor Cooking in Henrico County, VA (2026)

2 rules for unincorporated Henrico County, Virginia.

Verified from official government sources

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

BBQ & Propane Rules

Charcoal and gas grills may not be used on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction, except at one- and two-family homes or where decks are sprinklered. Single-family backyards may grill closer, per the state fire code.

Grills Must Stay 10 Feet From Combustible Construction

Some Restrictions

Henrico Fire Marshal, Open Burning FAQ (SFPC § 308.1.1)

Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices (Gas Grills) shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction. Exceptions: 1. One- and two-family dwellings. 2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Smoker Rules

Backyard smokers count as open-flame cooking devices under the fire code. They may not be used within 10 feet of combustible construction, except at one- and two-family homes or on sprinklered decks. Single-family residents may smoke meats in their yards.

Smokers Treated as Open-Flame Cooking Devices

Some Restrictions

Henrico Fire Marshal, Open Burning FAQ (SFPC § 308.1.1)

Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices (Gas Grills) shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction. Exceptions: 1. One- and two-family dwellings. 2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

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