Lima, OH Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Home grilling
- Allowed
- Open-burning rules
- Do not apply to grills
- Apartment balconies
- No grills (fire code)
- Clearance
- 10 ft from combustibles
- 1-2 family homes
- Exempt from balcony rule
Summary
Barbecue grilling is allowed in Lima. Grills and barbecue pits are exempt from the open-burning rules (they are not 'open burning'). The main restriction is Ohio Fire Code: at multi-family/apartment buildings, propane and charcoal grills cannot be used or stored on or under combustible balconies or within 10 feet of
"Recreational Fire" - An outdoor fire burning materials other than rubbish, where the fuel being burned is not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, barbecue grill or barbecue pit...
Full Breakdown
The City of Lima Open Burning Guidelines define open burning to exclude fuel contained in a barbecue grill or barbecue pit, so home BBQ cooking is not restricted the way bonfires are. For single-family homes, grilling with propane or charcoal is permitted. The key limitation comes from the Ohio Fire Code (OAC 1301:7-7-03), which prohibits operating or storing LP-gas or charcoal grills on combustible balconies or decks, or within 10 feet of combustible construction, at buildings with more than two dwelling units (apartments/condos). One- and two-family homes are generally exempt from that balcony restriction. Propane cylinders must still be stored outdoors and away from ignition sources.
Violations & Fines
Grilling on an apartment balcony against the fire code can bring a fire-code citation and orders to remove the grill; landlords may also prohibit it in leases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a propane grill on my apartment balcony in Lima?
Do open-burning rules apply to my BBQ?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lima
Compare Lima to another location·View the Ohio outdoor cooking overview
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