It may not feel like it with all the recent rain, but summer is almost here. And with Memorial Day right around the corner, grilling season is upon us. We wanted to take a moment to bring back our highly sought-after newsletter in getting you ready for the grilling season.
Keep in mind that there are regulations in the NYC Fire Code and the NYC Fuel Gas Code regulating how portable barbecues can legally be stored and operated here in New York City.
Portable outdoor barbecues are governed by Fire Code §307.5.
Charcoal, electric, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), or piped natural gas barbecues may be stored and used on residential premises. Portable barbecues may be used on other premises, except LPG barbecues, so long as such use is not prohibited by the Zoning Resolution, Construction Codes, or other rules and regulations promulgated by DOB or FDNY.
Rules to remember:
- The grate area of the barbecue cannot exceed 10 square feet.
- Barbecues must be at least 10 feet away from anything combustible, including combustible roofs and decks, and any door or window within 10 feet should be closed whenever feasible.
- Have a portable fire extinguisher with a 4-A rating (class K for commercial cooking) or a garden-hose attached to a water supply readily available.
- LPG containers are limited to 16.4 ounces for multi-family residential buildings (R-2 occupancies) and up to four of such containers may be stored indoors.
- For single & two-family homes (R-3 occupancies) the same rules apply for 16.4-ounce containers as above, but such homes may also use an LPG container with a capacity up to 20 pounds. However, such 20-pound container shall not be stored or used indoors or on any rooftop or balcony. A maximum of two 20 pound containers may be used or stored on site.
- Natural gas barbecues will need to comply with the NYC Fuel Gas code §263. Such installations must be installed by a New York City Licensed Master Plumber.
Periodically clean barbecues grills and trays of any accumulated grease or fat.
Here is a list of NYC parks that allow barbequing. Keep in mind that LPG barbeques are not permitted in non-residential settings.
Link to DOB resources on barbecues can be found here.
Link to FDNY summer fire safety guide can be found here.