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Washoe County, NV Outdoor Cooking: Smoker Rules (2026)

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

Key Facts

Smoker classified as
Cooking device, not open fire
Clearance
10 ft from combustibles
Balcony charcoal/wood
Prohibited
Fire-season allowed
Propane, electric, pellet only
Code
IFC 307/308

Summary

Backyard smokers and barbecue grills are exempt from the recreational-fire size rule, but the same 10-foot combustible-construction clearance for open-flame cooking devices applies, and during TMFPD fire restrictions only propane, electric, and pellet units may be used.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Washoe County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

A recreational fire is an outdoor fire where materials other than rubbish are being burned and it is not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, portable outdoor fireplace, barbeque grill or barbeque pit or fire ring.

View official code

Full Breakdown

TMFPD's definition of a recreational fire specifically excludes barbecue grills and barbecue pits, so a smoker or grill is treated as a cooking device rather than an open recreational fire. Open-flame and charcoal cooking devices (including charcoal and wood smokers) still may not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction under IFC 308.1.4, with exceptions for one- and two-family and sprinklered buildings and small LP-gas units. When TMFPD imposes seasonal fire restrictions, charcoal and wood-fired smokers are prohibited and only propane, electric, and pellet-fueled cooking is allowed. Keep a wood/pellet smoker well clear of eaves, fences, and dry vegetation during fire season.

Violations & Fines

Using a wood or charcoal smoker during an active fire restriction, or too close to combustible construction, can draw a TMFPD citation and liability for any resulting fire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my wood smoker during fire season?
Often no. When TMFPD declares fire restrictions, charcoal and wood-fired cooking is banned and only propane, electric, and pellet devices may be used; check the current restriction status.
Do smoker rules differ from fire-pit rules?
Yes. Barbecue grills and pits are excluded from the recreational-fire definition, so smokers are treated as cooking devices subject to the 10-foot clearance rule rather than the 25-foot recreational-fire rule.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Washoe County

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsBBQ & Propane RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet LimitsSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingSome Restrictions

All Washoe County rules

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