Montgomery adopts the International Fire Code through the Code of Ordinances; Montgomery Fire Rescue enforces IFC compliance, contact 334-625-3916. IFC §308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas containers larger than 1 lb on combustible balconies of multi-family buildings with three or more units, unless the building is fully sprinklered. Single-family backyard grilling is generally unrestricted. Alabama has no statewide air-district burn-day program.
Montgomery Fire Rescue enforces the International Fire Code (IFC) as adopted by reference in the City Code of Ordinances; contractors and operators are directed to confirm IFC-governed work with the Fire Marshal at 334-625-3916. IFC §308.1.4 prohibits the use of open-flame cooking devices (charcoal, wood) within 10 feet of combustible construction at apartments, condominiums, and other multi-family buildings of three or more units. LP-gas containers larger than 1 lb are also restricted on combustible balconies under IFC §308.1.4. The restriction does not apply where the building is fully protected by an automatic sprinkler system or where only listed electric grills are used. Single-family detached homes in Montgomery face no specific city restriction on propane or charcoal grilling, though best practice is to maintain at least 10 feet of clearance from siding, eaves, and overhanging vegetation. Alabama has no analog to the California SCAQMD No-Burn Day program — there is no statewide or regional ban on residential wood-burning during winter. The Alabama Forestry Commission can issue temporary open-burn bans during drought, which can affect open fires but typically not enclosed grills. Historic-district properties (Old Cloverdale, Garden District, Cottage Hill, Capitol Heights) should keep grills out of street-visible locations consistent with the Architectural Review Board design guidelines.
IFC §308 violations at multi-family buildings are misdemeanors under the city's general penalty provisions with required removal orders from Montgomery Fire Rescue. Building owners can be cited for tolerating known violations. Open-burn-ban violations issued by the Alabama Forestry Commission carry separate state penalties including fines and potential cost recovery for any resulting suppression activity.
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