Charlotte enforces the 2018 North Carolina Fire Prevention Code Section 308, which prohibits charcoal burners and open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 ft of combustible construction. LP-gas cylinders over 2.5 lb water capacity are prohibited within 10 ft of combustible construction. One- and two-family dwellings and fully sprinklered buildings are exempt. The Charlotte Fire Department has issued an official interpretation reinforcing these rules.
Charlotte adopts the North Carolina State Building Code: Fire Prevention Code (NCFC, 2018 edition) under Charlotte City Code Chapter 8. NCFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices from being operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in multi-family buildings. NCFC Section 308.1.4.1 prohibits LP-gas cylinders or containers with a water capacity greater than 2.5 lb from being stored or used within 10 ft of combustible construction. A standard 20-lb LP cylinder vastly exceeds the 2.5-lb threshold. Exceptions: (1) One- and two-family dwellings (homeowners may grill on porches, patios, and decks without setback); (2) Buildings, balconies, and decks protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system (sprinklered balconies allow grilling). The Charlotte Fire Department Fire Marshal's Office issued a published interpretation (CFD Interpretation - Use of Outdoor Grills) reinforcing these provisions and confirming that property managers are responsible for enforcing on common balconies. Electric portable tabletop grills are permitted. Enforced by CFD Inspections through complaint-driven and routine multi-family inspections.
Notice of violation under NCFC 308. Civil penalties under Charlotte City Code Ch. 8 (up to $500 per occurrence escalating). Property-manager and HOA liability for failing to enforce on common balconies. Insurance non-renewal common. Lease violations and eviction routinely upheld.
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