Springfield has adopted the 2024 International Fire Code with local amendments at Code of Ordinances Chapter 54 (Fire Prevention and Protection). IFC Section 308 governs open-flame cooking devices: charcoal burners and propane grills are prohibited on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in multi-family buildings with three or more apartments. LP-gas containers on combustible balconies are limited to 2.5-pound water capacity (small portable cylinders). One- and two-family dwellings and buildings protected throughout by automatic sprinkler systems are exempt.
Springfield's primary cooking-fire authority is Chapter 54 of the Code of Ordinances, which adopts the 2024 International Fire Code with local supplements. IFC Section 308.1.4 (Open-flame cooking devices) is the operative provision: charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction. The exceptions cover one- and two-family dwellings and any building or deck protected throughout by an automatic sprinkler system. Section 308 also restricts LP-gas containers on combustible decks to 2.5-pound water capacity — standard 20-pound BBQ tanks are not permitted on combustible balconies of apartment or condominium buildings with three or more units. For detached single-family homes, the IFC restriction does not apply; backyard gas and charcoal grilling on patios and decks is permitted subject to reasonable safety practice. Springfield Fire Department (417-874-2300) enforces Chapter 54 and the adopted IFC through Community Risk Reduction Division inspections and complaint investigations. Springfield's recreational fire rule (separately applicable to non-cooking fires) requires a 25-foot setback from structures and combustible materials, a maximum fire size of 3 feet diameter by 2 feet height, only dry seasoned firewood as fuel, wind speeds below 15 mph, extinguishment by midnight, and no burn longer than 4 hours. Multi-family lease provisions in most Springfield apartment complexes independently prohibit grills on balconies; lease violations are landlord remedies separate from city code. Greene County Health Department may also be involved for commercial outdoor cooking near food-service establishments.
Use of charcoal or propane grills on combustible apartment balconies in violation of IFC Section 308: Springfield Fire Department citation under Chapter 54, removal order, and possible landlord enforcement (most apartment leases prohibit balcony grilling independently). LP-gas containers larger than 2.5 pounds on combustible balconies: same enforcement plus order to remove the tank. Persistent smoke or odor creating a nuisance: Code Enforcement action under Chapter 74 (Nuisances and Housing Code) with daily civil penalties and possible Greene County Circuit Court injunction. Apartment fires resulting from prohibited balcony grilling: civil liability under Missouri negligence law plus possible criminal charges.
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