Tempe, AZ Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

Tempe adopts the International Fire Code through Tempe City Code Chapter 13 (Fire Prevention and Protection) with local amendments. Under Arizona statute the state fire code reflects the 2018 IFC adopted statewide. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal burners and open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in buildings with three or more dwelling units. Exceptions apply where the building or balcony is protected by an NFPA 13 or 13R automatic sprinkler system, or for LP-gas devices with containers of 2.5 lb water capacity or less. Standard 20-lb BBQ propane cylinders are prohibited on multi-family combustible balconies. Single-family detached homes are not restricted by IFC 308.1.4. Tempe has unusually dense multi-family stock around ASU and downtown - this rule applies broadly there. Maricopa County Air Quality Department Rule 314 declares PM-10 No Burn Days (typically December through February high-pollution advisory days) that prohibit solid-fuel cooking devices including charcoal grills; gas and propane devices are exempt. ARS 33-1819 protects single-family use of propane gas grills from outright HOA prohibition but allows reasonable placement and clearance rules.