To Whom It May
Concern: May 8, 2012
During a recent fire
inspection it was noted that there are grills being stored on balconies as well
as propane tanks. While the storage of the
grill itself is not a violation the storage and use of propane cylinders within
ten feet of combustible construction is a violation. The storage of propane tanks within the
dwelling unit or in an outside storage closet located on the deck is also in violation
of the fire code. If a grill is being
stored above grade level it is most likely being used as well.
I am attaching
Section 308.1.4 of the 2012 North Carolina Fire Code for your reference:
308.1.4 Open-flame cooking devices. Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices shall
not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet
(3048 mm) of combustible construction.
Exceptions:
1. One- and two-family dwellings.
(Condominiums are not covered as such)
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are
protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
3. LP-gas cooking devices having LP-gas
container with a water capacity not greater than 21/2
pounds [nominal 1 pound
(0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity].
If the property and
or the grills do not fit into one of the following exceptions grills cannot be
used and propane cannot be stored within ten feet of the combustible
construction.
Respectfully,
Asst. Fire Marshal
Daniel “Bob”
Nightingale
