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Howard County, MD Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Distance from building
At least 15 feet
Balconies/overhangs
No fuel-burning grills
Balcony exception
Electric grills only
Covered devices
Grills, hibachis, gas grills
Authority
Fire Prevention Code Title 17 §104

Summary

Grills, gas-fired grills and hibachis may not be used on a balcony, under an overhang, or within 15 feet of any building or structure. Only electric grills that use no alternative fuel may be approved for balcony use in Howard County.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Howard County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Grills, hibachis, gas-fired grills, chimineas, luminaries, fire pits, or other similar devices used for cooking, heating, or other purposes shall not be used or kindled on a balcony, under an overhanging portion of a building or structure, or within 15 feet of a building or structure.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Howard County's Fire Prevention Code (Title 17, Section 104) and County Code Title 12, Section 108 set clear rules for outdoor cooking. Grills, hibachis, gas-fired grills, chimineas, luminaries, fire pits and other similar devices used for cooking, heating or other purposes may not be used or kindled on a balcony, under an overhanging portion of a building or structure, or within 15 feet of a building or structure. This 15-foot separation is aimed at multifamily and townhouse settings where a grill against a wall is a real fire hazard. The only exception is that Howard County Fire and Rescue may approve electric grills that do not use an alternative fuel for balcony use.

Violations & Fines

Using a fuel-burning grill on a balcony or too close to a building may result in a citation and/or fine from the Office of the Fire Marshal (410-313-6040).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I grill on my apartment or condo balcony?
No. Charcoal and propane grills may not be used on a balcony or under an overhang. Only an electric grill with no alternative fuel may be approved there.
How close to my house can I put a grill?
Grills and similar cooking devices must be at least 15 feet from any building or structure and off balconies and overhangs under Howard County fire code.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Howard County

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsSmoker RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Snow Removal Parking RulesSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome Restrictions

All Howard County rules

Compare Howard County to another location·View the Maryland outdoor cooking overview

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