Dearborn Heights, MI Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

Section 307.4, adopted as part of the 2006 International Fire Code amendments at Sec. 14-46, permits barbeque grills, charcoal burners, LP-gas burners, natural gas burners and other open flame cooking devices for one- and two-family dwellings, while cross-referencing Section 308.3.1 for the general prohibition that otherwise applies outside that one- and two-family dwelling exception. Section 307.5 sets the placement rule: the location of any barbeque grill cannot be less than fifteen feet from any structure unless the grill's manufacturer has stated a different setback distance in writing, a standard set alongside the fifty-foot bonfire, fifteen-foot outdoor fireplace and twenty-five-foot outdoor fire pit clearances in the same section.

Section 302.1 defines a "barbeque grill" as a container used to cook food for human consumption over an open flame using LP gas, natural gas or charcoal, with a shut-off valve or lid to extinguish the flame once cooking is finished. Section 307.6 restricts fuel for the grill to LP gas, natural gas, charcoal or seasoned dry firewood, ignited only with a small amount of paper or manufacturer-approved lighter fluid, and bars using the grill to dispose of waste. Section 307.7 requires any barbeque grill in use to be constantly attended until extinguished, with a portable fire extinguisher rated at least 4-A, or two rated at least 2-A each, or comparable equipment such as sand or a water hose, available for immediate use.