Sarasota, FL Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Use status
- Permitted accessory use
- Where allowed
- All residential zone districts
- Single-family setback
- 5 ft from side/rear line
- Multi-family setback
- 10 ft from property lines
Summary
City of Sarasota zoning permits private barbecue pits as an accessory use in every residential district, provided they meet the same setback the district applies to accessory structures.
Noncommercial greenhouses and plant nurseries, tool houses and garden sheds, garden work centers, children's play areas and equipment, private barbecue pits and similar accessory uses shall be permitted as accessory buildings and structures in all residential districts.(14)Seawalls, groins and other beach protective devices shall be permitted in accordance with section VII-1304 of this Code.(15)Private docks and community boat docks, on waterfront properties, shall be permitted in accordance with section VII-1302 of this Code.(16)Non-profit bingo shall be permitted as an accessory use in accordance with section VII-602(w), unless specifically prohibited. (Ord. No. 02-4357, 4-29-02; Ord. No. 03-4429, § 13, 1-21-03; Ord. No. 04-4547, § 11, 6-7-04; Ord. No. 07-4770, § 2, 12-17-07; Ord. No. 23-5473, § 2(Exh. A), 4-17-23; Ord. No. 25-5583, § 2(Exh. A), 11-17-25)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 33 | Zoning: Supplement 44).
Full Breakdown
City of Sarasota Zoning Code § VII-903(13) lists private barbecue pits among the accessory uses allowed by right in every residential zoning district, alongside sheds, greenhouses and play equipment. Like other accessory structures on a single-family lot, a barbecue pit must stay out of the required front yard and set back at least five feet from side and rear property lines under § VII-903(1)(e); on multi-family projects the accessory setback rises to ten feet from all property lines under § VII-903(2). The code does not separately address propane tanks or grills on individual condo balconies.
Violations & Fines
Placing an accessory structure, including a barbecue pit, in a required front yard or closer than the applicable side/rear setback violates the zoning code and can draw code enforcement action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a zoning permit for a backyard barbecue pit in Sarasota?
Can I put a barbecue pit in my front yard in Sarasota?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sarasota
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Sarasota to another location·View the Florida outdoor cooking overview
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