Milwaukee County has no ordinance targeting backyard smokers; those follow municipal fire codes. In county parks, smokers must be enclosed metal containers used with a picnic permit or first-come area, in-ground pits are banned, and coals must go in Hot Coals bins.
Charcoal and wood smokers used for outdoor cooking on private property in Milwaukee County are not subject to a specific county ordinance; restrictions come from each municipality's fire and nuisance codes, including smoke complaints. In county parks, smokers fall under the same grilling policy as barbecues. Cooking is allowed at picnic sites with a Milwaukee County Parks Picnic Rental Permit or at a Designated First-Come, First-Served Picnic Area, equipment must be brought by the visitor, and cooking must be confined to enclosed metal containers, which covers box and barrel smokers. Deep fryers are prohibited and pig roasts must be done above ground with no in-ground pit. Users must douse hot coals and deposit them in designated Hot Coals bins.
Park smoking and grilling violations are enforced by Milwaukee County Parks, with fire infractions penalized under Ordinance 47.05 (forfeiture up to $100, 90 days in default) and turf or tree damage under Ordinance 47.08 (minimum $100 per violation).
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