Topeka, KS Outdoor Cooking: BBQ & Propane Rules (2026)

Kansas adopts the National Fire Protection Association NFPA 1 (with reference to IFC provisions) at the state level through the State Fire Marshal under KSA 31-132a et seq. Topeka enforces these state-adopted standards locally through the Topeka Fire Department's Fire Prevention Division. The key residential rule is IFC §308.1.4 (incorporated through the state's NFPA 1 / IFC framework): in any building containing three or more dwelling units, the following are prohibited — open-flame cooking devices (charcoal grills, wood-burning grills, traditional propane grills with cylinders over 1 lb), and any such device used within 10 feet of combustible construction (walls, eaves, soffits, overhangs, balcony floors or ceilings above, wood railings, fences, and similar features). Exceptions: (1) one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes are exempt from the multi-family balcony restriction; (2) buildings or balconies served by a listed automatic sprinkler system (NFPA 13 or 13R) are excepted; (3) listed electric grills are allowed; (4) listed LP-gas grills with non-refillable cylinders of 2.5 lb water capacity or less (nominal 1 lb propane) are generally permitted. NFPA 58 (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code) governs cylinder storage — cylinders over 1 lb must be stored outdoors, upright, valves protected, away from heat sources and building openings. Single-family backyard grilling is unrestricted by city code beyond manufacturer-recommended clearances from combustible siding and overhangs. Open burning of yard waste in Topeka is separately regulated and may be restricted during high fire-danger periods declared by the Kansas Forest Service.