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City of Lafayette Fire Department The IFC addresses the hazard from fire attributed to open flame devices on decks of multifamily occupancies by prohibiting their use, except where the building and combustible deck is protected by an automatic sprinkler system. The specific requirements are: 308.1.4 Open-flame cooking devices. Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction. Exceptions: 1. One- and two-family dwellings. 2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system. 3. LP-gas cooking devices having LP-gas container with a water capacity not greater than 2 ½ pounds [nominal 1 pound (0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity] The fire code prohibits use of open-flame and/or LP-gas devices on combustible balconies and decks not protected by a fire sprinkler system. This requirement poses a change for many residents residing in multi-family complexes with combustible balconies. In order to permit adjustment to this new requirement the Lafayette Fire Department initially takes an educational approach as opposed to a hard-line enforcement approach. Multi-family complex owners and managers along with residents shall be educated through various avenues, such as brochures and newsletters. All open-flame and LP-gas cooking devices meeting the specifications described in Section 308.1 of the IFC shall not be used and should be removed. Failure to comply shall result in enforcement action, including but not limited to verbal notification, written order-to-comply and/or municipal summons. Every reasonable effort shall be made to work with respective complex management staff to ensure compliance.