Stockton adopts the California Fire Code at SMC Chapter 15.12. Under CFC §308.1.4 as adopted, open-flame cooking devices may not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction at multi-family (R-2) buildings. Liquefied-petroleum (propane) cooking devices on such balconies are limited to LP-gas cylinders with a water capacity not greater than 2.5 pounds. The Stockton Fire Department Fire Prevention Division enforces these rules. Single-family yards are exempt.
SMC Chapter 15.12 adopts the California Fire Code as the Fire Code of the City of Stockton. CFC §308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices on any combustible balcony or within 10 feet of combustible construction in R-2 (multi-family) occupancies. An exception permits use where the building, balcony, and deck are protected by an operable automatic fire sprinkler system — but the LP-gas exception is narrower: LP cylinders on balconies in any building must not exceed 2.5 lb water capacity (roughly a 1-lb camping cylinder). Natural-gas-fueled barbecues on combustible balconies are prohibited without the sprinkler exception. CFC §6104 prohibits storage of propane cylinders inside any dwelling unit. The Stockton Fire Department's Fire Prevention Division has published guidance for apartment-balcony grills consistent with these rules. In single-family residential zones (SMC Title 16, Division 2), backyard BBQs are an accessory residential activity and the balcony restrictions do not apply; smoke and odor remain subject to the city's general nuisance authority under SMC Title 8 and SMC §16.32 (General Performance Standards).
Operating a prohibited grill on an apartment balcony violates SMC Ch. 15.12 (CFC §308.1.4) and is enforced by the Stockton Fire Department with a notice of violation, administrative penalties, and a requirement to remove the device. Storing propane cylinders inside a dwelling violates CFC §6104. Recurring violations may also breach landlord-tenant lease terms.
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