Can I Have an Electric Grill on a Balcony? 

Grilling is enjoyed by many Americans and the world at large. However, some miss out on this fun for various reasons, but it’s all about the limited space for many. In many instances, they are city-dwellers.

Can you have an electric grill on a balcony? Yes, electric grills are the best grills one can use on a balcony. They are not only compact and lightweight but also safe, smokeless, and occupy minimum space.

Keep reading as we explore why electric grills are suitable for cooking on a balcony and not the typical grills. This article also highlights safety tips you should observe while using an electric grill on a balcony. 

Using an Electric Grill on a Balcony 

Two main reasons could lead you to use an electric grill on a balcony. They include the following: 

1. Restrictions

If you live in a city and you’re a tenant in an apartment, or you live in a condo, there is a high probability you’re subject to grilling rules.

These restrictions are set by the property owners, property management companies, or local authorities such as municipalities. 

For instance, in New York, propane and charcoal grills are not allowed on the balconies, but electric grills are permitted.

Other states such as Tennessee, South Carolina, Ohio, North Dakota, Minnesota, Florida, Alabama, and California restrict propane and charcoal grills on combustible balconies or within 20 feet of combustible construction.

However, they allow cooking appliances without open flames, such as electric grills. Additionally, other states such as Oklahoma and Kentucky don’t allow the operation of any type of grills, including electric grills on balconies or within 10 feet of any structure.

Therefore, most states allow the use of the electric grill on the balconies and rule out the operation of other types of grills in the same place.

Most people living in apartments might only grill on balconies using an electric grill since property owners do not allow charcoal and gas grills. 

Restriction on using electric grills varies considerably from state to state or municipality.

For that reason, check out the respective laws within your area and consult with your property owner or management if they have any rules about grilling on a balcony. 

2. Space 

Space is essential when you want to grill. Most of the grilling happens outdoors, specifically in the backyards.

However, if you live in a condo or an apartment, you have minimal space, and backyards are a nightmare. So, do you forget about grilling? 

If you live in a state that doesn’t restrict grilling on balconies, investing in an electric grill is the alternative choice.

Electric grills are lightweight and compact thus easier to move from one point to another. Also, all it requires you to have is a small flat table on your balcony where you place the grill and a source power socket nearby.

That’s the convenience of electric grills. 

In addition, electric grills occupy a small space of your kitchen storage. 

3. Safety

According to the 2020 report by the US Fire Administration, there was an average of 5,700 unclassified fires and 4,900 structure fires annually.

Among the contributing factors to both kinds of grill fires include gas leaks, closeness to combustibles, unattended equipment, etc.

The report further illustrates that gas-fueled and solid-fueled grills caused the highest percentage of grill fires. 

Most states and property owners don’t allow the use of conventional grills indoors or on the balconies because of safety issues.

They pose a higher risk of fire. As a result, they are used in backyards or open places with enough air circulation and away from combustible materials. 

On the other hand, electric grills are safer than gas and charcoal grills, thus making them the ultimate choice of grills to cook on a balcony. Fire risks are for all types of grills but at lower levels for electric grills.

Safety Tips for Grilling on a Balcony

Now that you can grill on a balcony with an electric grill, here are grilling safety tips. 

Proper maintenance of grills

Maintenance entails cleaning your grill after each use. It’s essential for removing any grease on the cooking plate that could cause increased smoke or fire. 

Also, you should replace any worn-out plug and cords of your electric grill. It prevents electric complications. 

Practice safe grilling habits

These kinds of habits are pretty easy yet significant in preventing likely accidents while grilling. They entail: 

• having a fire extinguisher nearby
• unplugging the grill cord before cleaning
• Ensuring your power cord is not in contact with water
• Keep children and pets away from the grill 
• Don’t leave a grill unattended while cooking on it
• Wear appropriate gear and use the right tools while cooking a grill. 
• Only store your grill after it has cooled down. 

Final Thought

You can have an electric grill on a balcony. However, you must have an understanding of your state or municipal rules regarding grilling. If you live in a rented apartment, also check the set rules.

Cooking on an electric grill on a balcony is safer than using conventional grills. Also, they consume minimal space while grilling and for storage. 

Checkout out Atgrills indoor electric grill that you can use on a balcony, rooftop, and kitchen.