Backyard grilling is allowed in Chatham County. Cooking food is an express exception to the open-burning rule (Code Sec. 21-306), and standard propane grill cylinders are permit-exempt. The main limit is Georgia's Fire Code (IFC Sec. 308), which restricts charcoal and larger LP-gas grills on combustible apartment balconies.
Cooking is expressly protected: Sec. 21-306(2)(e) lists cooking food for immediate human consumption as an allowed exception to the open-burning prohibition, so backyard charcoal and propane BBQs are legal at homes. Standard ~20-pound propane cylinders are below Georgia's LP-gas permit thresholds (Rules 120-3-16 / IFC 2018) when used and stored per the manufacturer. The key restriction is International Fire Code Section 308, adopted statewide: charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices, and LP-gas cookers above the small-cylinder limit, may not be operated or kept on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction at apartment or condo (Group R) buildings, except one- and two-family dwellings or sprinklered buildings. Keep grills clear of structures and never leave them unattended.
Grill-fire and balcony violations are enforced by the fire marshal or Chatham Emergency Services under the state fire code (a misdemeanor); an escaped fire also breaches Code Sec. 21-306. Call 911 for an out-of-control fire.
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