Columbus enforces the Ohio Fire Code (OAC 1301:7-7) adopted under City Code Title 25, including Section 308.1.4 which prohibits charcoal burners and open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 ft of combustible construction. LP-gas containers with water capacity over 1 lb are prohibited on multi-family balconies. One- and two-family dwellings and sprinklered buildings are exempt. Enforced by Columbus Division of Fire.
Columbus City Code Title 25 (Fire Prevention Code) adopts the Ohio Fire Code (Ohio Administrative Code 1301:7-7). Section 308.1.4 of the Ohio Fire Code prohibits charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices from being operated on combustible balconies or within 10 ft of combustible construction in multi-family occupancies. Section 308.1.4.1 prohibits LP-gas (propane) containers with a water capacity exceeding 1 pound from being stored or used on combustible balconies or within 10 ft of combustible construction. A standard 20-lb LP cylinder vastly exceeds this limit. Section 308.1.4 contains explicit 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 - the 10-ft setback does not apply where sprinklers reach the balcony. Electric grills are not prohibited. Columbus Division of Fire (and local fire inspectors) enforce these provisions in apartments, condos, and townhouse buildings. Property managers typically post no-grilling signage and incorporate prohibitions into lease addenda. Insurance carriers underwriting multi-family properties routinely cite Sec. 308.1.4 in policy exclusions.
Notice of violation issued by Columbus Division of Fire. Civil penalties under Title 25. Property-manager liability for failing to enforce on common balconies. Lease violations and eviction proceedings common for repeat offenders.
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