With temperatures rising, barbecue season is starting again in Germany. But while barbecuing in your own garden is usually no problem, the question arises for tenants: Is barbecuing on the balcony or terrace permitted without restriction? talyo. Property Services provides tips on what tenants should bear in mind.
No general ban, but clear rules must be observed
In principle, barbecuing on balconies or terraces is not prohibited. However, restrictions may be included in rental agreements, house rules and municipal regulations. If you are unsure, you should take a look at the rental documents or ask the landlord directly.
To ensure that barbecuing does not lead to conflicts, it is particularly important to be considerate of your neighbours. A low-smoke electric barbecue is a good alternative to the classic charcoal barbecue, as it produces less smoke and odour. To avoid noise pollution, tenants should limit barbecuing to the early evening hours. The wind direction also plays a decisive role in preventing smoke from spreading unintentionally to neighbouring flats.
However, you shouldn’t barbecue too often at home: court rulings on barbecue frequency vary. In 2007, the Berlin-Schöneberg District Court allowed up to 25 barbecue evenings per year (Ref.: 3 C 14/07), while in 2002, the Aachen Regional Court only allowed two barbecue evenings per month (Ref.: 6 S 2/02) . In Munich, according to a 2023 ruling, a maximum of four barbecues per month are permitted, but not on two consecutive public holidays or weekends (Ref.: 1 S 7620/22 WEG). The Bavarian Supreme Regional Court ruled particularly strictly and only allowed barbecues five times a year (Ref.: 2 Z BR 6/99). As a general rule, be considerate of your neighbours and avoid excessive smoke nuisance.
Comply with safety regulations
In addition to being considerate of your neighbours, safety is paramount. Open fires or charcoal barbecues have no place in enclosed spaces as they pose a significant fire risk. To avoid damage to the balcony floor, it is advisable to place a fireproof mat under the barbecue. In addition, sufficient distance should always be maintained from awnings, parasols and other highly flammable materials to minimise the risk of fire.
Anyone who fails to comply with these rules must expect consequences. Repeated violations or significant disturbances may result in a warning or, in the worst case, even termination of tenancy. Open communication with neighbours and mutual consideration are the key to relaxed barbecuing and lasting peace in the building.