Middleton, WI Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

08(2) of the City of Middleton Municipal Code generally requires a Fire Department burning permit before anyone burns leaves, grass, wood, rubbish or other combustible material outdoors on a lot in the City, but the Section carves out an explicit exception for cooking: burning natural or LP gas, charcoal, dry wood or similar substances outdoors in vessels designed for cooking purposes only is not subject to the permit requirement, as long as the burning does not itself create a fire hazard. That exemption covers ordinary backyard propane and charcoal grills without any additional City registration.

A separate exemption applies to dry wood burned in a certified outdoor recreational fireplace or Building Inspector-approved brick fireplace under Subsection (2)(b), which carries its own setback and supervision conditions. 01(1)(o), Making of Fires, prohibits starting, tending or maintaining a fire in any city park except in personal grills or designated fireplaces, and personal grills may be used only within designated picnic areas, provided lawns and vegetation are not endangered. Anyone grilling in a park must dispose of unburned fuel and ashes in a manner that prevents fire or damage to park property. 11.