Dallas adopts the 2021 International Fire Code under Dallas City Code Ch. 16 (Fire Prevention). IFC Β§ 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas containers larger than 1 lb on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction at multi-family buildings. Single-family backyard grilling is unrestricted. Dallas County burn bans during drought do not apply to commercial grills used for food preparation.
Dallas enforces fire-prevention rules through Dallas Fire-Rescue under Dallas City Code Ch. 16 (Fire Prevention) adopting the 2021 International Fire Code. IFC Β§ 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction at apartments, condominiums, and similar multi-family residences. LP-gas (propane) containers larger than 1 pound are similarly restricted. Exceptions apply where the building is fully sprinklered or the device is electric. For single-family detached homes there is no city restriction on backyard charcoal, propane, or natural-gas grilling. During Dallas County burn bans declared by Commissioners Court under Texas Local Government Code Β§ 352, commercially manufactured grills used for food preparation remain permitted; open burning of yard waste, brush, or trash is prohibited. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Ozone Action Days do not restrict residential grilling but discourage charcoal use. HOAs in apartment complexes often impose stricter rules. Commercial wood-fired equipment at restaurants requires TCEQ air permits but residential smokers do not.
IFC Β§ 308.1.4 violations on multi-family balconies are Class C misdemeanors under Dallas City Code with fines up to $2,000 per day for fire code violations. Dallas Fire-Rescue may order immediate removal. Burning during a burn ban carries enhanced penalties up to $500 per offense.
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