Monterey County, CA Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

Barbecue grilling in unincorporated Monterey County is regulated by the California Fire Code, adopted locally through County Code Chapter 18.09. California Fire Code Section 308.1.4 (Open-Flame Cooking Devices) prohibits operating charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction. There are key exceptions: one- and two-family dwellings are exempt from the combustible-construction restriction; LP-gas cooking devices with a fuel container not over 2.5 pounds water capacity (the small portable camp-style cylinders) are allowed; and the restriction is relaxed where buildings, balconies, and decks are protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system. In practice this means a homeowner in a single-family residence can grill in the backyard with normal clearances, while apartment and condominium residents generally cannot use full-size charcoal or propane grills on combustible balconies. A disconnected propane tank also may not be stored on a combustible balcony or within 10 feet of combustible construction. Because much of unincorporated Monterey County is in a very high fire hazard severity zone, grills should be kept well clear of vegetation, and during red-flag warnings or declared fire restrictions even open-flame cooking may be limited. Always have a means to extinguish a fire on hand and never leave a lit grill unattended.