Fort Wayne adopts the Indiana Fire Prevention Code at 675 IAC 22 (which adopts the 2014 IFC with Indiana amendments) through City Code Ch. 94. Section 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal burners and open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 ft of combustible construction at multifamily buildings, and Section 308.1.4.1 limits LP-gas containers on such balconies to 1 lb water capacity. One- and two-family dwellings are exempt, as are buildings with automatic sprinkler protection covering the balcony.
Fort Wayne City Code Chapter 94 (Fire Prevention) incorporates Article 22 of Indiana Administrative Code Title 675, which adopts the 2014 International Fire Code with Indiana amendments as the Indiana Fire Prevention Code. Section 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices from being operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction at multi-family buildings (apartments, condos, townhomes). Section 308.1.4.1 limits LP-gas containers stored or used on combustible balconies to 1 pound water capacity - a standard 20-lb propane cylinder vastly exceeds this and is therefore prohibited at multi-family balconies. Two key exceptions apply: (1) one- and two-family dwellings (homeowners with patios, decks, and porches at single-family or duplex homes may grill freely); (2) buildings, balconies, and decks protected by an approved automatic fire-sprinkler system where the sprinkler coverage extends to the balcony. Electric grills are not regulated by Sec. 308.1.4. Fort Wayne Fire Department code enforcement (Code Enforcement Division) routinely inspects multi-family complexes and issues notices of violation. Local Code Ch. 94.70 defines a 'Barbecue Pit or Grill' as a stationary or portable device with electric, gas, or charcoal fuel used for food preparation - excluded from open-burning prohibitions when charcoal is the base fuel. Recreational fires for cookouts and scouting activities are exempt from burn permits under Ch. 94.71 if 25+ feet from structures with water supply nearby.
Notices of violation issued by Fort Wayne Fire Department Code Enforcement under Ch. 94. Civil penalties for property managers failing to enforce on common balconies. Multi-family lease violations and eviction proceedings are common for repeat offenders. State enforcement under 675 IAC may apply.
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