Charleston County, SC Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Single-family grilling
- Legal, cooking-fire exempt
- Cooking exemption
- Reg 61-62.2 Section I.B
- Multifamily limit
- SC Fire Code (2021 IFC)
- Balcony grills
- Restricted near combustible construction
- Spare cylinders
- Store outdoors, not indoors
Summary
Backyard propane and charcoal grilling is legal in Charleston County, and cooking fires are expressly exempt from the open-burning ban. Multifamily buildings, however, face the statewide fire-code restriction on grills near combustible construction.
Open burning in connection with the preparation of food for immediate consumption.
Full Breakdown
For single-family homes in unincorporated Charleston County there is no county ordinance restricting backyard grills; open burning 'in connection with the preparation of food for immediate consumption' is exempt under SC Reg 61-62.2 Section I.B. The main limits come from the statewide South Carolina Fire Code (2021 IFC): for apartments, condos, and other buildings with combustible construction, LP-gas and charcoal grills generally may not be operated on balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction unless the building is fully sprinklered or the grill is a listed exception. Keep grills clear of siding, fences, and overhangs, and store spare cylinders outdoors.
Violations & Fines
Grilling on a multifamily balcony contrary to the fire code is a code violation subject to correction orders; single-family backyard grilling is not restricted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a propane grill in my Charleston County backyard?
Can I grill on my apartment balcony?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Charleston County
Compare Charleston County to another location·View the South Carolina outdoor cooking overview
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