San Diego, CA Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

San Diego enforces the California Fire Code (CFC) through the Fire-Rescue Department Fire Prevention Bureau. CFC § 308.1.4 (as adopted in SDMC Chapter 9) prohibits charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction at apartment buildings, condominiums, and similar multi-unit residences. Propane (LP-gas) containers larger than 2.5 pounds are similarly restricted. Exceptions apply where the building is fully sprinklered or the cooking device is electric. For single-family detached homes outside high fire severity zones, backyard grilling is generally permitted. In Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) designated by CAL FIRE under California Government Code § 51177 and mapped through the SD Fire-Rescue Wildfire Hazard Severity Zone Maps, additional restrictions apply during Red Flag Warnings. Propane tank storage over 5 lbs requires compliance with CFC Ch. 61. The San Diego County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) regulates commercial wood-fired equipment but not residential grills. Beach and park grills are restricted to designated areas per SDMC § 63.0102.