August 11, 2014
TO: Multi-Family Dwelling Complex Managers
FROM: Al Thomas
Fire Marshal
Nashville Fire Department
RE: Grills on Balconies
The Metropolitan Council has adopted the "2006 edition of The International Fire Code" with some local amendments as Davidson County's fire code. There are some changes in the previous law concerning grills on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction. The new fire code states that open flame cooking devices are not allowed on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction unless the building and the deck is protected with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system.
The second section of the code states that even when grills are allowed because of construction or fire sprinklers LP gas fueled grills can't have storage cylinders with a water capacity larger than 2.5 pounds. Typical residential propane grills meet this definition.
IFC
308.3.1 Open-flame cooking devices.
Charcoal burners and other open-flamed cooking devices shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction.
Exceptions:
- One- and two-family dwellings.
- Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
LP-gas burners having an LP-gas container with a water capacity greater than 2.5 pounds (nominal 1 pound (01454 kg) LP-gas capacity) shall not be located on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 MM) of combustible construction.
Exception: One- and two-family dwellings.
Good fire prevention practices should always be used when operating a grill. Always have a way of extinguishing the fire and never leave the grill unattended. Remember that your actions may have an effect on several. Always think fire safety.
