It is important to keep a grill a safe distance away from the home to avoid damage. Vinyl siding damage is likely the most common form of destruction a grill creates from its heat. A grill placed too close to siding can cause it to buckle or burn. A worse case scenario would be that the siding or other material catches fire. Additionally, a grill needs proper ventilation to reduce smoke, carbon monoxide, and gas buildup.
We looked a selection of grill manuals to get an idea of how far away the manufacturers state their grills should be from a house. Here is what we found:
The manual for the Char-Broil #463673517, a typical 2-burner gas grill, states that the grill should be at least 3 feet away from any wall or surface. Additionally, the manual indicates 10 feet of clearance is required for objects that can catch fire or from a source of ignition.
The manual for Blackstone 36″ Outdoor Griddle states not to operate the grill within 36 inches from combustible construction. This includes both walls and ceilings.
The manual for the Cuisinart Deluxe 4-Burner Gas Grill #GAS9456AS also states at least 36 inches of clearance is required for the sides and back of the grill.
Lastly, the manual for Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill #24633 states that the grill should be placed at least 24 inches from any combustible surface.
We highly recommend that you read the product manual for your specific grill to determine how close to the house the manufacturer states it can be placed.
While the consensus above is at least 3 feet away, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission states to place the grill at least 10 feet away from a house or building.
Additionally, you should not use your outdoor grill in enclosed spaces such as a carport, porch, shed, garage, or inside a home or building. Using a grill in an enclosed area may cause dangerous carbon monoxide to build up or cause a fire.
