Outdoor Cooking in Merced County, CA (2026)

2 rules for unincorporated Merced County, California.

Verified from official government sources

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

BBQ & Propane Rules

Backyard barbecuing with propane or charcoal is allowed at homes in unincorporated Merced County. The 'dooryard premises' cooking exemption in Merced County Code Section 9.24.160 covers it, and small propane cylinders for grills are exempt from Fire Code permits. Fires must be attended and fully extinguished.

Merced County BBQ & Propane Rules

Few Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Smoker Rules

Using a backyard smoker (propane, charcoal, wood pellet, or stick burner) is allowed at homes in unincorporated Merced County under the cooking/'dooryard premises' exemption in Merced County Code Section 9.24.160. No burn permit is needed, but the fire must be attended and fully extinguished, and only clean cooking fuel may be used.

Merced County Smoker Rules

Few Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All Merced County ordinances

See every category we cover for Merced County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

Merced County Ordinance Hub →