Orlando, FL Outdoor Cooking: Outdoor Kitchen Permits (2026)

Outdoor kitchens in Orlando are reviewed by Orlando Permitting Services through the City's permit portal. A building permit is required for the masonry counter, structure, and any roof or pergola under the Florida Building Code as adopted by City Code Chapter 24. Separate trade permits cover gas piping (TECO Peoples Gas serves much of Orlando), electrical wiring (Orlando Utilities Commission or Duke Energy connections depending on neighborhood), and plumbing for sinks and icemakers (OUC water service). Built-in gas grills, side burners, and stationary propane tanks larger than 10 gallons trigger Orlando Fire Marshal review under the Florida Fire Prevention Code (NFPA 58 for LP-gas). Outdoor kitchens must comply with LDC accessory structure setback requirements — typically 5 ft from side and rear property lines in R-1 series districts, more in larger-lot R-1AAA. Covered outdoor kitchens count toward lot coverage maximums. Properties in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas around Lake Underhill, Lake Como, the Little Econ corridor, and along Shingle Creek must elevate per FBC §1612 and City Code Chapter 26 (Floodplain Management). Tree Removal Permits under LDC Chapter 60 are required if specimen trees (24-inch DBH or larger) are impacted. Plan review typically takes 2–4 weeks. Self-contained portable gas grills (not built into a counter) do not require permits.