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Columbus, OH Outdoor Cooking: Smoker Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Approval
Written sign-off from Fire Code Official
Shut-off distance
10 to 50 feet from device
Reset
Manual reset after shut-off trips
Covers
Permanently installed gas devices only
Penalty
First-degree misdemeanor for violations

Summary

Columbus requires written Building and Fire Code Official approval before installing a permanent natural gas grill, fire pit, or decorative fire feature, plus an emergency shut-off valve positioned 10 to 50 feet from the device.

2503.06.2 Emergency shut-off. Shall be provided with an emergency shut-off located within 50 feet but no closer than 10 feet to the device along the path of exit travel. Once activated the emergency shut-off shall require a manual re-set of the device. 2503.06.3 Approval. Natural gas cooking devices, fire pits, and other decorative fire features permanently installed in accordance with its listing, applicable codes, and manufacturer's instructions shall be permitted with the written approval of the Building and Fire Code Official.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 85 | Form Based Code: ?).

Full Breakdown

Columbus's Fire Prevention Code addresses outdoor cooking devices at Columbus City Codes § 2503.06, but only permanently installed natural gas grills, fire pits, and decorative fire features. Any such device must be installed per its listing and applicable building and fire codes, and it needs the Building and Fire Code Official's written approval before use. It must also carry an emergency shut-off located along the path of exit travel, no closer than 10 feet and no farther than 50 feet from the device; once tripped, the shut-off has to be manually reset before the device can run again. Portable charcoal, wood, or propane smokers aren't reached by this section.

Violations & Fines

Installing or operating a permanent gas fire pit, grill, or decorative fire feature without the Building and Fire Code Official's approval, or without the required emergency shut-off, violates the Fire Prevention Code: a first-degree misdemeanor under § 2501.99.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this cover my portable charcoal smoker?
No. Columbus City Codes § 2503.06 only regulates permanently installed natural gas cooking devices, fire pits, and decorative fire features, not portable charcoal, wood, or propane smokers.
Who has to approve a new built-in gas fire pit in Columbus?
The Building and Fire Code Official must give written approval before a permanently installed natural gas grill, fire pit, or fire feature is put into use.
How far from the fire pit does the emergency shut-off go?
Between 10 and 50 feet away, along the path of exit travel, per § 2503.06.2.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Columbus

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsOutdoor Kitchen PermitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Aircraft NoiseLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome Restrictions

All Columbus rules

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