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Clark County, WA Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

IFC 308.1.4 in WA
Not adopted
Balcony grills
Not banned by state code
Local rules
Cities may still restrict
Leases / HOAs
Often prohibit grills
Best practice
Keep clear of combustibles

Summary

Washington did NOT adopt the model fire-code ban (IFC 308.1.4) on grills on balconies, so propane and charcoal grills are not prohibited on decks or balconies by state code. However, local jurisdictions may impose their own restrictions, and grills should stay clear of combustible construction.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Clark County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

The adoption of this section was unintended by the Council [and the emergency rule clarifies that] the restrictions on Open Flame Cooking Devices are not included in the state's building codes. Local jurisdictions have enforcement authority.

View official code

Full Breakdown

The 2021 International Fire Code Section 308.1.4 would bar charcoal and open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in multifamily buildings. The Washington State Building Code Council determined that adopting this section was unintended and filed an emergency rule so the restriction is not included in the state building codes. As a result, propane and charcoal grills are not banned from decks and balconies by Washington state code. The Council noted local jurisdictions retain enforcement authority and may impose their own restrictions, and apartment leases or HOAs frequently prohibit grills.

Violations & Fines

There is no state penalty for grilling on a balcony, but a city ordinance, fire marshal directive, or lease/HOA rule can still prohibit it and impose fines or eviction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a propane grill on my apartment balcony in Clark County?
Washington state code does not ban it, because the SBCC declined to adopt IFC 308.1.4. But your city, fire marshal, HOA or lease may still prohibit balcony grilling, so check those first.
Is the 10-foot grill setback required in Washington?
Not by state code. Washington did not adopt the model IFC 308.1.4 rule, so the 10-foot setback from combustible construction is not a statewide requirement.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Clark County

Animal Ordinances: Chickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Cat RulesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet LimitsSome Restrictions

All Clark County rules

Compare Clark County to another location·View the Washington outdoor cooking overview

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BBQ & Propane Rules in Cities Across Clark County

Vancouver, WA