Norfolk, VA Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

Norfolk's fire code is the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (VSFPC) adopted under Va. Code §27-94 et seq., which incorporates the 2018 International Fire Code (IFC) with Virginia amendments. Enforcement is by the Norfolk Fire-Rescue Department Fire Marshal's Office. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices, charcoal burners, and other open-flame appliances on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in any structure containing 3 or more dwelling units. Exceptions: one- and two-family dwellings; balconies served by an automatic sprinkler system (NFPA 13 or 13R); listed electric grills; and listed LP-gas grills with cylinders not exceeding 1 pound. Many Norfolk downtown high-rises (Granby Tower, Wells Fargo Center residential floors), Ghent multifamily buildings, and Ocean View condominiums fall under this rule. NFPA 58 (adopted via VSFPC) governs LP-gas cylinder storage: cylinders larger than 1 pound must be stored outdoors, upright, in a ventilated area, at least 5 feet from building openings. Garage and basement storage of propane cylinders is prohibited. At single-family homes, backyard grilling is unrestricted by Norfolk municipal code. Public grilling: Norfolk City Code regulations on parks and beaches (Ocean View, East Beach, Community Beach) may restrict open fires; check the park-specific rules and follow lifeguard direction. Naval Station Norfolk and Navy housing have their own grilling rules independent of city code.