2 rules for unincorporated Imperial County, California.
Verified from official government sources
Backyard barbecuing with propane or charcoal is allowed in unincorporated Imperial County and is not separately licensed. The main rule comes from the California Fire Code: at multi-family and similar properties, barbecue grills and propane appliances must be kept at least 15 feet from structures. Single-family homes have more flexibility but should follow clearance and safety basics.
Using a backyard smoker (wood, pellet, charcoal or propane) for cooking is allowed in unincorporated Imperial County and needs no air-district burn authorization, because cooking is not waste burning. The California Fire Code's cooking-fire clearance and attendance rules apply, and persistent smoke that disturbs neighbors could be addressed as a nuisance.
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