Fort Smith, AR Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

IFC §308.1.4 (Open-flame cooking devices) is one of the most-cited multi-family fire-prevention rules nationwide. As adopted in Arkansas by the Arkansas Fire Prevention Commission (which functions under A.C.A. §12-13-101 et seq. and issues the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code), it prohibits charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices from being operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in Group R-2 (apartment) and similar multi-family occupancies. Exception 2 typically allows LP-gas (propane) cooking devices on balconies of multi-family Group R-2 buildings where the building is sprinklered throughout and the LP-gas container does not exceed 1-pound capacity. Exception 3 in some editions allows the use of permanently-installed cooking devices on balconies served by sprinklers. For one- and two-family dwellings (Group R-3 under the IRC), the IFC §308.1.4 restriction does not apply, so single-family Fort Smith homeowners may use propane and charcoal grills on patios, decks, and yards subject to nuisance and smoke-impact considerations. LP-gas (propane) cylinder storage is regulated by NFPA 58 (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code) as referenced by the IFC: residential cylinders are limited in aggregate capacity, must be stored outdoors with appropriate clearances, and must not be stored inside dwellings or basements. The Fort Smith Fire Marshal's Office enforces IFC requirements at the local level under the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. Arkansas LP-gas dealers are licensed by the Arkansas Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board under A.C.A. §15-75-101 et seq.