Don’t Fire Up the Grill on a Porch or Balcony this Summer, Warns Somerville Fire Department

Somerville’s iconic porches and balconies are more than just a great place to enjoy the summer – in a densely built city, they also pose a unique fire hazard during grilling season. That’s why each summer, when the majority of grilling fires occur statewide, the Somerville Fire Department reminds the community that grilling (or use of smokers) is not allowed on porches and balconies or within 10 feet of a building – and propane tanks cannot be stored in or on residential buildings. 

Nearly 75% of grilling fires in Massachusetts over the past 10 years have occurred between May and August, and outdoor cooking fires cause injuries and property damage every year across the state. Somerville has additional risk. With an older housing stock, mostly constructed of wood-frame units built closely together, outdoor fires can easily spread to other homes and properties.

Always call 911 if you see uncontained flames or smoke.  

“Every year we see grilling-related fires, and when they involve illegal grilling on porches and balconies, they can quickly get very dangerous. Having an open flame so close to wooden porch frames is unsafe, and with so many of our homes so close to each other, fires can quickly jump to the next property. You’re not just protecting yourself by following the rules, you are protecting your neighbors, too” said Assistant Fire Chief Sean Tierney. “We need everyone to commit to safely using and storing grilling equipment to help prevent outdoor fires and ensure a safe summer.” 

In Somerville, grills and smokers are not allowed on porches, balconies, fire escapes, or roofs. Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, and chimineas are also always prohibited in the City in all locations.  

Safe Cooking  

• Charcoal, wood, and propane grills are not allowed on porches, balconies, fire escapes, roofs, or decks with a roof, overhang, or wall. This includes grills, hibachis, barbecues, and smokers.   

• Grilling should only be done outdoors, at ground level, 10 feet from structures, and never under overhangs or branches. 

• All cooking fires should be on a charcoal briquette grill or propane gas grill. 

• Never leave a grill burning unattended.  

• Keep children and pets away from grills, matches or lighters, and lighter fluid. Children should never play near grills or propane cylinders.  

Safe Storage and Cleanup  

• Propane tanks cannot be stored in or on residential buildings. 

• Dispose of ashes from grills in a metal can, douse them with water, and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Ashes can remain hot enough to ignite combustibles long after the fire goes out. Never dump them outdoors or place them inside a building or in the trash and never place them in a combustible container or paper bag. 

• Always clean your grill after use to help prevent grease fires.  

To report improper use of a grill or outdoor burning violations, call the SFD at 617-623-1500. For more grilling safety information, visit mass.gov/info-details/grilling-safety. 

Persons with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication (i.e., CART, ASL), written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures in order to access the programs, activities, and meetings of the City of Somerville should contact the ADA Coordinator in advance at 617-625-6600 x 2059 or ADA@somervillema.gov.  

If you need assistance understanding this information, please contact us at languageaccess@somervillema.gov or call 311 (617-666-3311). The City of Somerville can provide you with an interpreter for free.