Salem, OR Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

Salem follows the Oregon Fire Code, codified at OAR 837-040, which adopts the International Fire Code (IFC) with state amendments. IFC Section 308.1.4 governs open-flame cooking devices: in non-sprinklered multi-family residential buildings, no open-flame cooking device (propane grill, charcoal grill, hibachi, etc.) may be operated, stored, or used on a balcony or within 10 feet of any combustible construction (siding, wood decks, etc.). One-and two-family detached dwellings (single-family homes and duplexes) are exempt from that specific restriction. Buildings with full automatic sprinkler systems throughout may permit grills subject to building management policies. Salem Fire Department (370 Trade St. SE) enforces fire-code compliance under SRC Title VIII and the state fire-marshal delegation. Salem residential grilling generally is not addressed by SRC outside the fire code. Open-burning bans imposed by Salem Fire Department (such as the recurring summer ban that has been issued in recent fire seasons) expressly do not restrict 'the operation of any barbecue equipment,' so propane and charcoal grills remain permitted on single-family lots even during a city open-burn ban. NFPA 58 best practices recommend keeping propane cylinders at least 10 feet from openings, never storing them indoors, and limiting on-site propane storage to 100 pounds per dwelling. Refilling 1-pound disposable cylinders is prohibited under federal DOT regulation 49 CFR 173.301. Marion County Public Works does not impose separate grilling restrictions within Salem city limits.