Barbecues and grills used solely for cooking are exempt from San Clemente's fire-pit rules but must be operated safely under the adopted California Fire Code (SCMC Chapter 8.16). Grilling is allowed at homes; multi-family balconies face open-flame limits, and beach cooking is limited to contained barbecues or fire rings.
SCMC 8.16.050 adopts California Fire Code Section 307, and Section 307.6 exempts barbecues, grills, and portable devices used solely for cooking from the outdoor-fireplace and fire-pit rules. At detached single-family homes, gas and charcoal barbecues are permitted with clearance from combustible construction and vegetation. For apartments and condominiums, California Fire Code Section 308.1.4 restricts open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction, with exceptions for sprinklered buildings or electric grills, so residents should check building rules first. Barbecue propane cylinders (about 20 lb) are allowed for residential use and should be stored outdoors, upright, away from heat, per Chapter 61 and NFPA 58.
A grill that creates a fire hazard, or open-flame cooking on a prohibited combustible balcony, violates the California Fire Code adopted as SCMC Chapter 8.16.
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