Outdoor cooking activities like having a BBQ, smoking meat and grilling food are very popular, but they need to be done safely and within fire restrictions. On this page, learn how and when you can safely cook outside, including on a balcony.
Can I have a BBQ or cook outdoors?
Solid fuel cooking equipment like BBQs, spit roasts, pizza ovens and some smokers can create sparks and embers which can start a fire. Learn the rules around using BBQs and other outdoor cooking appliances during fire restrictions in the video below.
Before you use a BBQ or light a fire to cook outdoors, check:
If so, there are special rules you need to follow which are explained below.
Fire Danger Period
If where you live is in a declared Fire Danger Period, you are not allowed to light a fire or use a BBQ for cooking unless:
- the wind is less than 10 km/h (if leaves on trees are constantly moving around in the wind it's too windy)
- 3 metres around and above the fire is clear of anything that can burn
- the fire or BBQ is supervised and watched at all times by a person who can put out the fire
- the BBQ is completely turned off or the fire put out when finished
Learn what you can and can't do during the Fire Danger Period.
Total Fire Ban days
On a day of Total Fire Ban it is illegal to use any solid-fuelled (wood, coals, heat beads etc) outdoor cooker, anywhere in Victoria.
You can use a gas (including LPG) or electric outdoor cooker on a day of Total Fire Ban, but you must follow the same rules as during the Fire Danger Period, as well as an additional rule:
The fire must be in a properly constructed 'fireplace' or BBQ
This must be either be:
a) A permanently fixed structure constructed of stone, metal, concrete or any other non-flammable material, which must be designed exclusively for meal preparation. For example, a built-in BBQ.
OR
b) A commercially manufactured BBQ or outdoor cooking appliance (including a portable gas stove), designed exclusively for meal preparation, which must:
- be used in a stable location when lit
- be located clear of anything that can burn - clear area within 3 metres of the cooker—around and above.
- watched and supervised by a capable adult at all times when the cooker is on
- be completely put out before you leave it.
Breaking these rules can result in more than $46,000 of fines, or 24 months in prison, or both.
Using a Hangi during fire restrictions
Fire Danger Period
There are particular restrictions that apply to Hangis being used in country or semi-urban Victoria during any declared Fire Danger Period:
- the wind is less than 10 km/h (if leaves on trees are constantly moving around in the wind it's too windy)
- the fire must be lit in a trench that's at least 30 centimetres deep
- the fire is no bigger than 1 square metre
- the solid fuel is appropriately sized for the purpose
- 3 metres around and above the Hangi is clear of anything that can burn
- the fire is supervised and watched at all times by a person who can put it out
- the fire is completely extinguished before the person leaves
Breaking these rules can result in more than $23,000 fines, or 12 months in prison, or both.
Total Fire Ban days
It is illegal to use a Hangi to cook meals anywhere in Victoria on a day of Total Fire Ban.
Breaking the rules can result in more than $46,000 fines or 24 months in prison or both.
Gas BBQ safety
- Gas BBQ safety checklist
- Check hoses and connections for leaks
- Check age and condition of gas cylinder
- Remove rubbish, clutter and flammable items from nearby
- Clean grease and fat build up before turning on
- Always watch while cooking
- Turn BBQ and gas off when finished
- Clean grease and fat build up when cooled down
Replace old hoses and connections
Regularly check and replace old or cracked hoses, O rings and hose connections on your gas cylinder. Make sure connections are tight.
If left to wear down, these parts can create dangerous gas leaks. Gas leaks could cause a fire or explosion.
Test for leaks
"If it bubbles, you're in trouble."
Check for leaks with soapy water following these steps:
- Mix water and dishwashing liquid into a spray bottle or on a sponge
- Spray or wipe soapy mixture on the BBQ gas connection and hose
- Turn on the gas cylinder but not the BBQ burners. This will pressurise the system
- If you see bubbles, smell gas or rotten eggs, there is a leak
- If there is a leak: turn off the gas
- Re-fit or tighten all connections
- Repeat soapy water test to check if it's still leaking
Check age of gas cylinder
Don't refill a gas cylinder if it hasn’t been tested for more than 10 years, or if the cylinder has been damaged.
We recommend using a reputable cylinder exchange service so you don't need to worry.
Regularly clean grease and fat build up
Regularly clean your BBQ to remove grease and fat build-up, including the drip tray. BBQs can start fires due to fat spatter and flames from fatty meat like lamb chops and sausages.
Wear an apron and use BBQ tools to protect yourself from hot oil and fat when cooking.
Store gas bottles upright
Always store gas bottles upright and away from heat sources. Turn off when not in use.
Turn your BBQ off properly
Leaving your BBQ on could start a fire, like it did in the video case study below.
Chris forgot to turn the BBQ off after using it, which accidentally started a fire. Luckily, the smoke was detected by their smoke alarm and they could call Triple Zero [000] before more damage was done.
Don't use portable gas cookers or BBQs inside
Cooking or lighting fires and BBQs inside, including in your shed or garage isn't safe. Use BBQs, gas cookers and fire pits outdoors with lots of air around for ventilation.
BBQs and portable gas cookers also produce poisonous (carbon monoxide) gas, which is dangerous in enclosed spaces.
Be careful when BBQing on a balcony
You need to be particularly careful when BBQing on a balcony because of the limited amount of space available.
- BBQ at least 50cm (half a metre) away from walls and fences
- Remove rubbish, clutter and flammable items around BBQ, including outdoor furniture
- Keep a dry powder fire extinguisher nearby. Use only in case of a small fire and if you feel physically and mentally able.
Learn more about apartment fire safety.
Page last updated: Monday, 25 August 2025 4:46:02 PM