Can I Have a Small Charcoal Grill on My Patio?

Every year, especially in the summer, lots of tenants in apartments and housing communities start thinking about whether or not they can keep a small charcoal grill outside of their unit. These small cooking appliances are great for backyard barbecues and other events, but some fire risks and related restrictions may apply.

Here are some ways to figure out what you are allowed to use for outdoor cooking as a tenant.

Consult Your Lease

Look through the lease in detail and see what restrictions or limitations apply to the use of small charcoal grills or other cooking items.

Evaluate the Safety of Your Outdoor Areas

One critical element of fire safety with charcoal grills is the idea that these grills should not be used on a wood or other flammable surface. This means that if your backyard consists of a wooden deck, this is not a good place for a charcoal grill. The ideal spot for a charcoal grill is a grassy area with no flammable items in the immediate vicinity.

Evaluate Safety for Higher Floors

If you do not live on the ground floor, your “patio” may consist of a terrace. Again, think about how a small charcoal grill will or will not be fire safe in your specific outdoor area.

Before starting up your grill, do your homework to correctly figure out what kinds of dangers and risks apply to your barbecue plans, and whether you may face some reaction from a landlord if what you’re doing is not permitted within the provisions of your lease.