Denver Fire Code (DRMC Title 9, adopting IFC 2018 with amendments) Section 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal grills and LP-gas containers over 1 lb on combustible balconies and within 10 feet of multi-family combustible construction. Single-family backyard grilling is unregulated by city code. Electric grills are exempt. Sprinklered balconies are exempted from the ban.
Denver Fire Code Section 308.1.4 bans open-flame cooking devices, including charcoal, propane, and pellet grills, on balconies and within 10 feet of combustible construction in any building containing three or more residential dwelling units. LP-gas cylinders larger than 1 lb may not be stored or used on a multi-family balcony. Exceptions: one- and two-family dwellings; balconies equipped with automatic sprinklers; and listed electric heating elements. Single-family backyard grilling has no city restriction beyond minimum 15-foot separation from any structure for open burning under DFC 307. LP-gas storage at residential premises: indoor limited to 1 lb cylinders; outdoor cylinders up to 100 lb water capacity (a 20 lb BBQ tank fits) must be at least 5 feet from doors, windows, and combustible building openings per DFC 6109.6. Denver's open-burning restrictions under DRMC 4-13 also prohibit visible smoke from burning trash, leaves, or refuse — but lawful BBQ cooking is exempt.
DFC violations are misdemeanors under DRMC 9-7 with fines up to $999 per day. Denver Fire Department issues a Notice and Order requiring abatement within 24 hours. First offense typically $250 administrative fine; continued violation escalates to $999/day. Building owners often impose stricter no-grill rules in leases due to insurance.
Denver, CO
Denver's Zoning Code allows residential lawn ornaments and statuary without permits provided they do not exceed accessory-structure height limits in DZC Arti...
Denver, CO
Denver does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. Blower-motor noise falls under DRMC 36-6 (Noise) limits, lighted inflata...
Denver, CO
Denver has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. DRMC Chapter 36 (Noise) governs amplified outdoor displays, DZC Ar...
Denver, CO
Denver permits long-term ADU rental without minimum lease terms but restricts short-term rentals (under 30 days) to the operator's primary residence under DR...
Denver, CO
Denver does NOT require owner occupancy for ADUs. The 2024 citywide ADU rezone (Council Bill 23-0739) eliminated all owner-occupancy requirements that had be...
Denver, CO
Denver's Affordable Housing Impact Fee (DRMC Sec. 27-150) and Transportation Impact Fee (DRMC Sec. 56-2) are waived for ADUs under 1,000 sq ft in many distri...
See how Denver's bbq & propane rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.