Utah Fire Code Bans Charcoal Grills In These Specific Places

Cooking with charcoal gives you a hot dry heat and creates a rich smoky flavor in the meat. However, Utah follows the international fire code which means if you live in an apartment or an attached dwellings, there are restrictions.

Understanding Fire Code Restrictions for Grilling in Utah

The code reads that charcoal grills or any open flame should not be used on balconies or within 10 feet of the building. These precautions would be true for any backyard as a tipped over grill could ignite the house or a tall flame could light up the ceiling.

The restriction applying specifically to apartment balconies is due to the amount of space available and that a fire could effect many residents. I had no idea this was a thing when I lived in apartments and did plenty of grilling at the time.

Charcoal grilling on a balcony in Utah has restrictions. Google

Exceptions to Grilling Regulations

There are exceptions to these restrictions. If there is an automatic sprinkler system covering the balcony or the back patio. It also waved if you are using a LP-gas like propane with a container with water.

These are precautions that are good to keep in mind whenever you are grilling in your backyard. It is such a common experience to gather friends and family and cook burgers that its easy to forget the risks.

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Something like kids running around or a dog knocking over the grill can turn a fun time into a 911 call. These restrictions that the State of Utah outlines are a good reminder, especially if you have limited space.