Cameron County, TX Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- BBQ grills
- Permitted, even in burn ban
- Propane rules
- RRC 16 TAC Ch. 9, NFPA 58
- County ordinance
- None for backyard grilling
- Multifamily limits
- City fire code may apply
- Burn-ban authority
- LGC 352.081
Summary
BBQ grills, including propane grills, are permitted in unincorporated Cameron County and stay allowed even during a county burn ban. Propane cylinders follow Railroad Commission LP-gas rules and NFPA 58, not a separate county ordinance.
Ground fires, including the burning of trash, yard waste, or other materials directly on the ground, are prohibited during the burn ban. However, residential fire pits and BBQ grills are still permitted.
Full Breakdown
Cameron County sets no ordinance restricting backyard barbecuing. Its outdoor burn-ban order, issued under Local Government Code 352.081, prohibits ground fires and burning of trash or yard waste but expressly keeps 'residential fire pits and BBQ grills' permitted, so grilling continues during a ban. The propane cylinders that fuel gas grills are regulated statewide by the Railroad Commission of Texas under 16 TAC Chapter 9 and NFPA 58, which preempt local propane ordinances. Apartment and multifamily grilling near buildings may be limited by fire-code rules where a city has adopted the International Fire Code. Grill responsibly and keep grills clear of structures.
Violations & Fines
Grilling itself is not a county offense. Misusing a grill to burn prohibited waste during a burn ban is a Class C misdemeanor under LGC 352.081(h).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my propane grill during a Cameron County burn ban?
Does the county limit propane cylinder size for grills?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cameron County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Cameron County to another location·View the Texas outdoor cooking overview
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