Hampton enforces the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (VSFPC), based on the 2021 International Fire Code, through Chapter 14 of the City Code and the Hampton Fire Marshal's Office. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal burners and LP-gas grills with cylinders over 1-pound capacity on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in multi-family buildings. One- and two-family homes are exempt, and sprinklered buildings have an exception.
Hampton Code of Ordinances Chapter 14 (Fire Prevention and Protection) adopts and locally enforces the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (13 VAC 5-51), which is based on the 2021 International Fire Code with Virginia amendments. IFC Section 308.1.4 (Open-Flame Cooking Devices) provides that charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices may not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction. LP-gas cooking devices with LP-gas containers having a water capacity not greater than 2.5 pounds (nominal 1-pound LP-gas capacity) are excepted. Three additional exceptions apply: one- and two-family dwellings; buildings, balconies, and decks protected by an automatic sprinkler system; and listed equipment installed per its listing. The Hampton Fire Marshal's Office enforces violations through complaint response and apartment property inspections, often coordinating with property managers and HOAs. Many Hampton apartment complexes adopt stricter no-grill lease addenda regardless of fuel type. Hampton's coastal location and prevailing winds from Chesapeake Bay add real fire-spread risk in dense multi-family settings.
Use of a prohibited grill on a Hampton multi-family balcony violates the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code as adopted in Chapter 14 of the City Code, with citations issued by the Hampton Fire Marshal and required removal of the device. Property managers face additional administrative enforcement. Lease violations can lead to eviction under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Fire damage from prohibited grills typically voids renter or homeowner insurance and creates civil liability for damage to other units and common areas.
Hampton, VA
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Hampton, VA
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Hampton, VA
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Hampton, VA
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Hampton, VA
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Hampton, VA
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