Chesapeake enforces the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (VSFPC), based on the 2021 International Fire Code, through Chapter 34 of the City Code and the Community Risk Reduction Division of the Chesapeake Fire Department. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal burners and LP-gas grills with cylinders over 1-pound capacity on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in multi-family buildings. One- and two-family homes are exempt.
Chesapeake Code of Ordinances Chapter 34 (Fire Prevention and Protection) adopts the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (13 VAC 5-51), which is based on the 2021 International Fire Code with Virginia amendments. IFC Section 308.1.4 (Open-Flame Cooking Devices) provides that charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices may not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction. LP-gas cooking devices with LP-gas containers having a water capacity not greater than 2.5 pounds (nominal 1-pound LP-gas capacity) are excepted. Three additional exceptions apply: one- and two-family dwellings; buildings, balconies, and decks protected by an automatic sprinkler system; and listed equipment installed per its listing. The Chesapeake Fire Marshal's office enforces violations through complaint response and apartment property inspections, often coordinating with property managers and HOAs. Many Chesapeake apartment complexes adopt stricter no-grill lease addenda regardless of fuel type.
Use of a prohibited grill on a Chesapeake multi-family balcony violates the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code as adopted in Chapter 34 of the City Code, with citations issued by the Chesapeake Fire Marshal and required removal of the device. Property managers face additional administrative enforcement. Lease violations can lead to eviction. Fire damage from prohibited grills typically voids renter or homeowner insurance and creates civil liability for damage to other units and common areas.
Chesapeake, VA
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Chesapeake, VA
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Chesapeake, VA
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Chesapeake, VA
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Chesapeake, VA
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