Akron, OH Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

Akron's local cooking-fire rule (Section 93.40) was added to address backyard grills, fire pits, and outdoor cooking generally without banning the activity. The 15-foot setback from structures is the operative local provision and applies to detached single-family backyards, decks, patios, and garage-attached cooking areas alike. The 10-foot extra-fuel-separation rule covers spare propane tanks, charcoal bags, lighter fluid, and similar combustibles. 'Nuisance' under the section is read together with Chapter 94 (Nuisances) and Ohio common-law nuisance principles; persistent heavy smoke drifting into a neighbor's open windows can trigger enforcement. The Ohio Fire Code (OAC 1301:7-7, adopting the 2018 International Fire Code with Ohio amendments) governs multi-family settings: Section 308 prohibits charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction, with exceptions for one- and two-family dwellings and for buildings protected throughout by an automatic sprinkler system. Section 308 also restricts LP-gas containers on combustible decks to 2.5-pound water capacity (small portable cylinders); larger 20-pound BBQ tanks are not permitted on combustible balconies of apartment or condominium buildings. Akron Fire Department enforces both local Chapter 93 and the state fire code on inspection sweeps and complaint investigations. Recreational fires (non-cooking) are governed separately by Section 93.40 and the Ohio EPA open burning rules; this entry covers cooking fires specifically.