D.L. from Fairfield County, Connecticut writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
What if anything can HOA do to contest the new (2015) but just starting to enforce no grills on balconies? We are a townhouse group, never had a fire issue in 40 years and now we all being told to get rid of your gas grills.
Mister Condo replies:
D.L., as a fan of outdoor grilled foods, I feel your pain. However, as a proponent of safety and fire prevention in community associations, I understand the importance of rules regarding fire safety and the proper use of outdoor grills. I don’t see how you could contest the rule, especially if it is in accordance with your town, city, county, or state laws. If it is a requirement of the association’s insurance, violating the rule would subject the association to unnecessary risk and possible liability. Depending on the layout of your common areas, it may be possible for your association to create a designated area where outdoor grilling can safely be conducted. That won’t let you fire up your grill on your back deck any more but those days are quite likely over. A common area for grilling may be the community’s only practical solution. Save me a hot dog, please!