Ankeny, IA Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

Code of Ordinances Section 180.14 amends International Fire Code Section 308.1.4.1, Open Flame Cooking Devices, for the City of Ankeny. Charcoal burners, other devices that produce ashes or embers, and other open-flame cooking devices may not be operated on a combustible balcony or deck, or within 20 feet of combustible construction. Any LP-gas container used with such a device must also be located in compliance with IFC Section 6104, the fire code's LP-gas storage and handling rules. The rule carries two exceptions: it does not apply to one- and two-family dwellings built to the International Residential Code, and it does not apply to LP-gas cooking devices whose LP-gas container has a water capacity of 20 pounds or less, the standard small propane cylinder used on most home grills.

That combination means a resident grilling with a typical small propane tank at a single-family house is exempt outright, but a multifamily building, townhome common area, or any grill using a larger propane tank, must keep charcoal, ember-producing and open-flame cookers off combustible balconies and decks and at least 20 feet from combustible construction. The Ankeny Fire Department, created as the fire code's enforcement agency under Section 180.07, administers and enforces this rule alongside the rest of the Ankeny Fire Code adopted under Section 180.02.