Anoka County, MN Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Fire code section
- IFC 308.1.4 / Appendix O
- Clearance from combustibles
- 10 feet
- Single/two-family homes
- Exempt
- 3+ unit balconies
- Banned under Appendix O
- Small LP exception
- Under 2.5 lb container
Summary
Under the Minnesota State Fire Code, charcoal and gas grills may not be used on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction, with limited exceptions. In apartments of three or more units adopting Appendix O, grilling on balconies is banned. Single-family homes are exempt.
In any structure containing three or more dwelling units, no person shall kindle, maintain, or cause any fire or open flame on any balcony above ground level or any ground floor patio within 15 feet of a structure. ... No person shall store or use any fuel, barbecue, torch, or other similar heating or lighting chemical or device in the locations designated in Section 1.1.
Full Breakdown
Minnesota adopts the International Fire Code, whose Section 308.1.4 prohibits operating charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction. Exceptions cover one- and two-family dwellings, sprinklered buildings, and LP-gas devices with a container water capacity not greater than 2.5 pounds. Where a city adopts Appendix O, in any structure containing three or more dwelling units no person shall kindle, maintain or cause any fire or open flame on any balcony above ground level, or on any ground-floor patio within 15 feet of the structure. Permanently plumbed or wired grills with 18-inch clearance may be approved by the fire chief.
Violations & Fines
In multi-family buildings, using or storing a grill on a balcony contrary to the fire code can be ordered corrected and cited by the fire marshal; the fuel or grill may be removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill on my apartment balcony in Anoka County?
Do these grilling limits apply to single-family homes?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Anoka County
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