Maple Grove, MN Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- 3+ story, 15+ unit buildings
- Ground-level clearance
- 15 feet from structure
- Gas grill clearance if plumbed
- 18 inches from combustibles
- Charcoal storage
- Allowed in garage only
Summary
Maple Grove bans open flames and grills above ground level in taller multifamily buildings, unless the grill is far from the structure or gas-plumbed in.
In any structure more than two stories in height and containing 15 or more residential units, no person shall kindle, maintain, cause, or use any fire, open flame or electric heating element above ground level; nor shall such activity occur on any patio set in and level with the ground unless such activity occurs at least 15 feet from all portions of the structure. Exception: Charcoal barbecue grills devoid of all flammable materials may be kept in a garage.(2)Barbecue grills that burn natural gas are prohibited in any place where prohibited in subsection (1) of this section unless such a grill is devoid of fuel containers and all flammable materials, or unless such a grill is permanently mounted, and plumbed to the structure's natural gas supply, and set at least 18 inches from all combustibles and all portions of all such residential units. (Code 2003, § 18-79; Ord. No. 03-11, § 1, 4-7-2003; Ord. No. 20-07, § 1(exh. A), 5-18-2020)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 6 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
The city amends Appendix O of the state fire code to bar kindling or maintaining any fire, open flame, or electric heating element above ground level in buildings taller than two stories with 15 or more residential units: that includes balconies and patios unless the activity is at least 15 feet from the building. Charcoal grills devoid of flammable materials may be stored in a garage. Natural gas grills face the same ban unless disconnected from fuel or permanently plumbed to the building's gas line and set 18 inches from combustibles and units.
Violations & Fines
Kindling a fire, grill, or heating element on a balcony or patio within 15 feet of a covered building violates the code; noncompliant natural gas grills are barred outright unless permanently plumbed and properly clearanced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill on my apartment balcony in Maple Grove?
Are natural gas grills ever allowed on balconies?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Maple Grove
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