Fort Collins adopts the 2021 International Fire Code through Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) under City Code Chapter 9. IFC 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. Electric grills are exempt.
Fort Collins City Code Chapter 9 adopts the 2021 IFC with PFA amendments. IFC 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 multi-family balconies. Exceptions: one- and two-family dwellings; balconies with automatic sprinklers; listed electric heating elements. Single-family backyard grilling has no city restriction beyond IFC 307 requiring 15-foot separation from any structure for open burning. LP-gas storage at residential premises: outdoor cylinders up to 100 lb water capacity must be at least 5 ft from doors, windows, and combustible openings per IFC 6109.6. PFA may declare Stage 1 or Stage 2 fire restrictions during high-danger periods, restricting open flame across the entire city.
IFC violations under City Code 9-2 are misdemeanors with fines up to $2,650 per occurrence per day. PFA issues a Notice and Order requiring abatement within 24 hours. First offense typically $250 administrative fine; continued violation escalates. Stage 1/2 fire restriction violations carry separate penalties up to $2,650 plus fire-suppression cost recovery if a fire results.
Fort Collins, CO
Fort Collins prohibits storing abandoned, inoperable, or unregistered vehicles on public streets or visible on private property. Vehicles may be tagged and t...
Fort Collins, CO
Fort Collins regulates electric vehicle charging infrastructure for residential and commercial properties. Building codes may require EV-ready parking in new...
Fort Collins, CO
Fort Collins regulates overnight parking on public streets. Many areas restrict parking between certain hours or require permits for overnight street parking.
Fort Collins, CO
Fort Collins requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Fort Collins, CO
Fort Collins requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Fort Collins, CO
Fort Collins restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nu...
See how Fort Collins'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.