Rhode Island has adopted NFPA 1 (the National Fire Protection Association Uniform Fire Code, 2018 edition) under R.I. Gen. Laws Section 23-28.1 as the State Fire Code. NFPA 1 Section 10.11.7 prohibits the use or storage of LP-gas (propane) grills and other open-flame cooking devices on balconies, porches, or within 10 feet of combustible construction on multi-family residential buildings. The Providence Fire Department enforces these rules citywide.
Rhode Island incorporates NFPA 1 (2018 edition) as the State Fire Code by reference at 450-RICR-00-00-7. NFPA 1 Section 10.11.7 prohibits the use or storage of LP-gas grills, charcoal grills, and other open-flame cooking devices on any balcony, porch, or other portion of a multi-family residential building, or within 10 feet of any combustible construction. One- and two-family dwellings (which are common in Providence's triple-decker neighborhoods like Federal Hill, Elmwood, and Olneyville) are exempt from the balcony ban for the family's own use, but the 10-foot clearance from combustible construction still applies. LP-gas containers larger than 1 lb water capacity may not be stored on multi-family balconies. The Providence Fire Department (under R.I. Gen. Laws Section 23-28.2 State Fire Marshal authority delegated to local fire chiefs) inspects and cites violations. Many Providence triple-decker landlords and condo associations add stricter prohibitions through lease terms or bylaws. The framing parallels International Fire Code Section 308 used in IFC-adopting jurisdictions, but the operative Providence rule is NFPA 1 Section 10.11.7.
Using or storing a propane grill on a multi-family balcony in Providence violates NFPA 1 Section 10.11.7 and Title 23 Chapter 28.1 of the Rhode Island General Laws. The Providence Fire Department can issue citations, order immediate removal, and refer repeat violations for prosecution. Landlords may be cited for tenant violations on their properties. Insurance claims for fires caused by prohibited grills are commonly denied. Lease violations can lead to eviction proceedings.
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