Chesapeake, VA Outdoor Cooking: Smoker Rules (2026)

Chesapeake enforces the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code under Chapter 34 of the City Code. IFC Section 308.1.4 covers all open-flame and solid-fuel cooking devices, including offset smokers, pellet smokers, kamado cookers, and traditional charcoal smokers. On multi-family residential buildings (Group R-2), smokers may not be operated on combustible balconies, porches, or within 10 feet of any combustible wall, deck, fence, or overhang. Three exceptions apply: one- and two-family dwellings; buildings or balconies protected by an automatic sprinkler system; and listed equipment installed per its listing. Chesapeake homeowners may use smokers in single-family yards on noncombustible surfaces such as concrete patios or pavers with appropriate clearance. No residential burn permit is required for cooking, but a separate open-burning permit through the Chesapeake Fire Marshal is required for non-cooking yard fires. Commercial caterers operating smokers at events should coordinate with Chesapeake Fire's Community Risk Reduction Division.