Barbecuing · NYC311 (2024)

FAQs

Are you allowed to barbecue in Central Park? ›

Grilling and Barbecuing

Barbecuing in Central Park is allowed only on Memorial Day, Labor Day, and the Fourth of July.

Commercial and Residential Barbecuing

The use of a charcoal, electric, or piped natural gas or propane barbecue indoors, or on any commercial property, or on any sidewalk or street, is illegal.

Cooking with a charcoal barbecue is legal on a terrace or in a backyard — but not on a balcony or roof. There must be a 10-foot clearance between the grill and the building. You must also have immediate access to a fire extinguisher or a water supply, such as a garden hose. See the NYC Fire Code §307.5.

New Yorkers were in a frenzy this week as a viral story found itself being passed around social media. The story claimed that New York State would soon be banning both gas and charcoal grills.

Always grill outdoors. Grills must be 10 feet from the side of a building unless the manufacturer's instructions say it can be closer. Make sure grills are not underneath overhanging branches. Grills cannot be used on a porch, balcony or deck with a roof, overhang or wall (other than the exterior of the building).

Drinking Alcohol in Public in New York: Regulations

Generally, drinking in public places, such as streets or parks, is prohibited. Violating these laws can result in fines or even arrest. As such, when wondering if you can drink in Central Park in NYC, the answer is no.

You must have a Special Event permit to hold any event with more than 20 people in a park or on a beach, including barbecues and parties. You will be advised if you need any additional permits for your event once you submit the application. There is a $25 non-refundable processing fee for all Special Events permits.

A mobile food vending unit can be operated indoors or outdoors on public, private or restricted space. A food vendor must have a food vendor license or a supervisory license, and the unit must have a permit.

To be safe, you need to move your grill at least 10 feet from your home or from any combustible materials. Avoid placing your grill on any uneven surfaces to prevent tipping over.

The New York strip is a butcher's favorite and a people's choice, often referred to as the 'Ultimate Griller's Steak'. And, for good reason. The rich marbling of the strip steak will melt into the meat as it grills resulting in an incredible steak dinner.

Can I use a charcoal grill in an apartment? ›

You can only use gas and charcoal grills at least 15 feet from buildings. Electric grills are usually acceptable for balcony use.

Open-flame cooking devices can't be operated on “combustible balconies.” Wooden decks and similar structures can easily catch and spread fire, making them risky places to operate a BBQ grill.

Public grills might seem off-putting, but with a little bit of prep, you can safely grill your favorite foods. And remember, when grilling, the intense heat that is created when firing the grill up burns away any food that may be remaining on the grate. The grill brush takes care of the rest.

It's illegal and dangerous to store or use any kind of grill on a fire escape.

The law bans gas-powered stoves, furnaces and propane heating and effectively encourages the use of climate-friendly appliances such as heat pumps and induction stoves in most new residential buildings across the state.

Barbecuing Rules

Please be cautious when barbecuing and keep a safe distance from patrons, children, and trees. Be courteous to others and please clean the area carefully before you leave. Events involving more than 20 people require a special events permit.

Picnicking in Hyde Park

Feel free to bring your own food and drink to enjoy in the park but barbecues and any sort of fire lighting is absolutely forbidden.

Central Park party restrictions

But if you're thinking of reserving a space for a birthday party or other celebrations, be aware. There are lots of rules you will have to follow including no tables or chairs, and even balloons.

All seating is first-come, first served. Outside chairs are not permitted inside the Central Park venue. Sitting on picnic blankets and beach towels are allowed, however if the venue gets crowded, patrons may be asked to pick up their blankets and towels.