Lincoln enforces the International Fire Code through Title 16 of the Lincoln Municipal Code. IFC §308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas grills on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in any building with 3 or more dwelling units. Single-family backyard grilling is unrestricted.
Lincoln's fire code is administered through Title 16 of the Lincoln Municipal Code, which adopts the 2018 International Fire Code with local amendments. Enforcement is by Lincoln Fire & Rescue (Fire Prevention Division). IFC Section 308.1.4 — applied in Lincoln — prohibits the use of open-flame cooking devices, charcoal burners, and other open-flame appliances on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in any structure containing 3 or more dwelling units. Exceptions: one- and two-family dwellings (single-family homes and duplexes); balconies served by an automatic sprinkler system; listed electric grills; and listed LP-gas grills with cylinders not exceeding 1 lb. NFPA 58 (adopted via Title 16) governs LP-gas storage: cylinders larger than 1 lb must be stored outdoors, upright, in a ventilated area, at least 5 feet from building openings. Indoor storage in basements, attached garages with ignition sources, or living spaces is prohibited. At single-family homes, backyard grilling is unrestricted by City code. Winter caution: Nebraska winters bring frozen regulators, ice on grills, and snow-load concerns for permanent shelters — these are safety considerations, not regulatory limits.
Use of prohibited grill on multi-unit balcony: Lincoln Fire & Rescue citation, removal order, and possible lease violation. Building owners can be cited for known tolerated violations. Indoor LP cylinder storage: NFPA 58 violation under Title 16.
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