Grilling in NYC Apartment Buildings

Posted on March 21, 2024

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Our clients often ask us whether they can BBQ on their apartment balconies. Just because you live in an apartment does not mean you can’t enjoy grilling. New York City has strict rules about outdoor grilling on balconies and rooftops. However, it doesn’t entirely ban the practice. The rules you’ll need to follow in order to grill on your balcony or rooftop are largely based on the type of grill you will be using: propane, natural gas, charcoal, or electric. Speak with an experienced New York City real estate attorney for more information.

COOP & CONDO RULES

Before you light up your grill make sure to check if your building allows it. Most coop and condo buildings in NYC strictly prohibit grilling on the balconies and terraces.

ONE RULE THAT APPLIES TO ALL GRILLS & BARBECUES

Section 307.5.3 of the New York City Fire Code requires that your grill or BBQ be placed more than 10 feet away from anything that can easily catch fire. This includes building walls, deck surfaces, and furniture. You cannot grill inside of your apartment, fire escape, or on your balcony. (Unless your balcony is so large that you have a 10-foot clearance between the grill and the building.)

NATURAL GAS BARBECUES

This is the most popular type of grill in NYC apartment buildings. Many new apartment buildings install natural gas barbecues as an amenity for their residents. Generally, natural gas barbecues are legal to use at all residential properties in NYC but they must be installed by a New York City Licensed Master Plumber (LMP) according to the NYC Fuel Gas Code. In addition, the piping must be inspected and tested by the LMP.

PROPANE GAS

This is not an option for apartment owners. Although allowed to be used in the backyards of single and two-family homes, the NYC Fuel Gas Code restricts the use of propane grills in apartment buildings. For apartment buildings, it’s illegal to store a standard backyard propane barbecue on a balcony, roof deck, roof, rear yard, or courtyard. Standard propane barbecues use 20-pound liquefied petroleum gas — or LPG — containers. While propane tanks cannot be stored on roofs, you may use a propane tank that’s smaller than 16.4 ounces for a short period of time on a roof.

ELECTRIC BARBECUES

Electric barbecue grills are legal to install, use, and maintain at residential properties. This includes balconies, terraces, roofs, or yards. But unlike regular kitchen appliances, electric grills use a substantial amount of electricity. Make sure that your outlet has an electric current sufficient to safely operate your electric grill. Extension cords should not be used unless they are approved by the grill manufacturer and are safe to use with the current required to run the grill. Otherwise, you risk starting the fire and your neighbors will definitely not appreciate that. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the grill properly, and be sure to keep the grill at least 10 feet from anything that could catch fire.

CHARCOAL BARBECUES

It is legal to use charcoal barbecues on terraces and in backyards, but not on balconies and roofs. As with other types of grills, there must be a ten-foot clearance between the grill and anything that could catch fire. You must also have immediate access to a fire extinguisher or a water supply, such as a garden hose. See the NYC Fire Code §307.5.1.

Type of Grill Restrictions/Requirements
Natural gas Must be installed by a licensed plumber according to the NYC Fuel Gas Code; piping must be inspected and tested by the plumber
Propane gas Not allowed to be stored or used on balconies, roofs, or in courtyards; smaller propane tanks (less than 16.4 ounces) can be used on roofs for a short period of time
Electric Must have sufficient electrical current and not use extension cords without manufacturer approval
Charcoal Not allowed on balconies or roofs; must have 10-foot clearance from anything that could catch fire and immediate access to a fire extinguisher or water supply

Is It OK to BBQ on an Apartment Balcony?

When determining whether you can BBQ on an apartment balcony, the rules vary depending on the type of grill and local regulations. Charcoal grills are not permitted on balconies or rooftops because of the fire hazard they present. If your apartment has a terrace or a backyard, you can use a charcoal grill only if it’s 10 feet away from the building and you have quick access to fire extinguishing equipment.

Electric grills are typically allowed on apartment balconies, provided they are at least 10 feet away from flammable materials. Before using an electric grill, check that your electrical outlets can handle the grill’s power requirements to avoid any electrical issues.

The use of propane grills in apartment settings is heavily restricted. Storing standard 20-pound propane tanks on balconies or rooftops is illegal, but you can use a small propane tank—under 16.4 ounces—on a rooftop temporarily. For homes, a propane grill with up to two 20-pound tanks is acceptable.

For natural gas, grills must be installed by a licensed professional and are only permitted if they are designed for residential use. It’s important to ensure that any installation complies with the NYC Fuel Gas Code.

Before you decide to BBQ on your apartment balcony, it is crucial to check with your building management or local fire department for any additional rules or guidelines. Adhering to these regulations will help ensure that you can enjoy grilling safely and legally.

Can You Grill Under a Covered Patio

New York City real estate lawyer

The regulations for grilling under a covered patio vary based on the type of grill and local rules. In New York City, grilling is permitted on balconies and rooftops, but strict regulations apply. 

The rules for propane, natural gas, charcoal, and electric grills may vary. Natural gas grills are commonly used in NYC apartments and are allowed at residential properties if installed by a Licensed Master Plumber in compliance with the NYC Fuel Gas Code. Propane gas grills are not permitted in apartment buildings. Electric barbecue grills are allowed on residential balconies, terraces, roofs, or yards, but require a significant amount of electricity and safety precautions. Charcoal barbecues are permitted in backyards and terraces, but not on balconies or roofs. 

Regardless of the grill type, according to Section 307.5.3 of the New York City Fire Code, the grill or BBQ must be placed at least 10 feet away from anything that could easily catch fire, such as building walls, deck surfaces, and furniture. By adhering to these regulations, you can safely enjoy your grilled meals under a covered patio without compromising your safety or that of others.

Have A Safe And Happy Fourth of July!

Written by Peter Zinkovetsky, Esq

NYC REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY

Disclosure: This is a law blog by an NYC real estate attorney. This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not express or provide a legal opinion.

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