Grills Still Allowed on Balconies

Over the last few months many RHAWA members have contacted the Support Center with questions and confusion about whether the use of grills, BBQs and other open burning devices on balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in apartments, condos or other multi-resident buildings is permissible.

Yes, they are permitted under rules established by the Washington State Building Code Council (SBCC).

The confusion was caused when the SBCC adopted updated rules in December of 2023 to the State Fire Code that placed a ban on balcony grills that was scheduled to become effective on March 15, 2024.

However, on March 15, 2024, the SBCC turned around and filed an Emergency Rule Making Order with the State Code Reviser immediately rescinding their December 2023 rule banning grills and BBQ’s. In the Emergency Order, SBCC stated a “transcription error” was made in the drafting of the new rules as it was not the intent of the SBCC to ban grills and BBQ’s on balconies.

So yes, BBQs and other open burning devices on balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction in apartments, condos or other multi-resident buildings are permissible, unless prohibited by an HOA or Rental agreement.