Fires or barbecues on balconies prohibited.
The City of Hopkins bans the use of barbecues on balconies or within ten feet of a building that contains homes for multiple families. Listed electric or gas-fired barbecue grills that are permanently mounted and wired or plumbed to the building's gas supply or electrical system and that maintain a minimum clearance of 18 inches on all sides are exempt.
This ordinance effects owners and residents of buildings that have three or more dwelling units. One and two family dwellings are exempt from this requirement. The danger to occupants and the difficulty of fighting a fire is greater in a larger building.
The 10 foot distance requirement apply to all portions of the building, including attached garages. Stand alone garages and other structures that do not contain living units are not included in these requirements.
- It is good practice to always keep a barbecue at least 3 feet away from any combustibles including tables and fencing.
- An ash tray/catcher is extremely important if the device is used on a combustible surface like a wooden deck.