Outdoor Cooking in Lake County, IL (2026)
1 county-level rule, plus city-specific rules for 1 city in Lake County, Illinois.
Verified from official government sources
Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Lake County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.
Smoker Rules
In unincorporated Lake County, a backyard barbecue pit is exempt from the standard 50-foot bonfire clearance, but portable outdoor fireplaces must sit at least 15 feet from any structure and every open flame needs constant attendance.
Lake County Barbecue Pit and Fire Clearance Rules
Some RestrictionsLake County Code § 150.21 (Fire Code § 307.4.1, § 307.4.3)
307.4.1 Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet (15,240 mm) of a structure or combustible material unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 50 feet (15,240 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition. ... 307.4.3 Portable outdoor fireplaces. Portable outdoor fireplaces shall be used in accordance with the ...
Outdoor Cooking by City in Lake County
1 cities in Lake County have their own outdoor cooking rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
All Lake County ordinances
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