Peoria, IL Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

Peoria's Code of Ordinances adopts the International Fire Code by reference, enforced by the Peoria Fire Department's Fire Prevention Bureau. Under IFC Section 308.1.4, charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices, and LP-gas cooking appliances having an LP-gas container of more than 1-pound (16-ounce) water capacity, shall not be operated or stored on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction. The restriction expressly does not apply to one- and two-family dwellings, where a standard backyard propane or charcoal grill is permitted in the rear yard subject to general fire-safety and nuisance rules. IFC Chapter 61 regulates LP-gas container storage; in one- and two-family homes, propane containers up to 20-pound (5-gallon) capacity are typical for grill use, with DOT-approved cylinders required. Indoor storage of LP-gas cylinders inside a dwelling is prohibited. Multi-family properties (apartment buildings, condominiums, townhomes with shared walls and balconies) are the primary target of IFC 308.1.4; many Peoria apartment communities have adopted balcony grill bans consistent with this rule. The Illinois Liquefied Petroleum Gas Act (430 ILCS 50/) regulates LP-gas distribution and equipment statewide and is enforced by the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal. Recreational fires (separate from cooking) are regulated under Peoria's burning ordinance and Illinois EPA open-burning rules under the Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5/).