There have been some recent changes to the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code. Two key changes are:

308.3.1 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 and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.

This prohibition is to help avoid the potential for hot embers from falling from the fire box onto the combustible surface such as a wooden deck or balcony. The 10 foot separation is required to lessen the chances of igniting combustible walls, and balcony above, in the event there's a flare-up from starting the cooking fire or from a grease accumulation. The exceptions are in recognition of the occupant's level of control and lack of exposure to others along with the added protection of sprinklers.

308.3.1.1 Liquefied-petroleum-gas-fueled cooking devices. LP-gas burners having a LP-gas container with a water capacity greater than 2.5 pounds (1.14 kg) [nominal 1 pound (0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity] shall not be located on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction.

Exception:
1. One- and two-family dwellings.