Mobile, AL Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Balcony grilling
- Prohibited for charcoal/open-flame devices
- Clearance from structure
- 10 feet from combustible construction
- Landlord duty
- Written tenant notice required
- Max fine
- $500 plus possible 6 months jail
Summary
Mobile's fire code bans charcoal grills and other open-flame cookers on balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction, and requires multifamily landlords to warn tenants in writing.
Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices shall not be operated on balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction. The management of multi-family residential occupancies which have balconies, decks, or patios shall notify their tenants in writing of the prohibitions of open flame cooking devices on balconies as outlined in 308.1.4 of the fire code when the tenant or occupant initially occupies the building and periodically thereafter as may be necessary to ensure compliance.
308.1.4 Open flame cooking devices. Exceptions: Amend as follows:
Exceptions 2: Delete in its entirety.
Exceptions 3: Delete in its entirety.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 67).
Full Breakdown
Mobile's amended fire code prohibits charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices, including gas grills, on balconies, or anywhere within 10 feet of combustible construction, under Section 308.1.4 of the 2021 International Fire Code as locally amended. The rule targets apartment and condo balconies, decks, and patios where flare-ups can ignite siding or a neighboring unit. Property managers of multifamily buildings with balconies, decks, or patios must notify tenants in writing of the prohibition when they first occupy the unit and periodically afterward as needed to keep them compliant. Violations of the fire code carry fines up to $500 and up to six months in jail.
Violations & Fines
Fire code violations are punishable by a fine of up to $500 and up to six months' imprisonment or hard labor, per Section 112.4 of Mobile's amended fire code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a charcoal grill on my apartment balcony in Mobile?
Does my landlord have to warn me about the grill rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mobile
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