BBQ on the balcony — tips, rules & best BBQs | The Rub Kitchen
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Millions of Dutch people live in an apartment or only have a balcony. Yet you don't have to miss out on BBQ season — if you know the rules and choose the right BBQ. This is the complete guide to barbecuing on a balcony in the Netherlands: what's allowed, what's not, and how to still achieve those smoky flavors.
Can you BBQ on a balcony in the Netherlands?
This is the first and most important question. The answer depends on three factors:
- Your rental agreement or HOA regulations: Many apartment complexes explicitly prohibit open flames or charcoal BBQs on the balcony. Always check your rental agreement or the house rules of your HOA (Homeowners Association) before lighting the BBQ.
- Municipal regulations: Some municipalities have additional rules about open fires in densely populated areas, especially during dry periods.
- Fire safety: A charcoal BBQ produces sparks, ash, and smoke — a serious risk on a wooden balcony or near other homes.
Practical rule of thumb: charcoal and wood are prohibited or strongly discouraged on most balconies. An electric BBQ or a small gas barbecue are the safest choices for balcony use.
Best BBQ type for the balcony
Electric BBQ
The most balcony-friendly option. No open fire, no ash, minimal smoke. Modern electric BBQs reach temperatures of up to 250°C — enough for a good sear. Downside: you miss the charcoal flavor. Compensate this with a dry rub containing smoked paprika or use a few wood chips in a sealed aluminum packet directly on the heating element.
Small gas barbecue
Propane or butane gas BBQs are permitted on many balconies if there is no explicit prohibition. They reach high temperatures quickly, produce little smoke, and are easy to clean. Do check if gas cylinders are allowed on your balcony — some HOA regulations also prohibit this.
Compact charcoal BBQ (only with permission)
If your rental agreement and HOA allow it, a small kettle or tabletop charcoal BBQ is possible — provided it's far from windows, doors, and flammable materials. Never use a BBQ under a canopy or roof. Always dispose of used coals in a metal bucket with a lid, never in the trash can.
Smoke flavor without charcoal
The biggest miss with electric or gas grilling is the smoke flavor. Here's how to compensate:
- Smoked paprika in the rub: Smoked paprika gives an authentic smoky note without any smoke. All our rubs contain smoked paprika as a base spice.
- Wood chips in foil: Fold a small pouch from aluminum foil, fill with wet wood chips, and place it directly on the gas flame or electric element. Small amounts of smoke, big effect.
- Liquid smoke: A drop in the marinade or rub gives a smoky background. Use sparingly.
Read more about smoking wood and smoke flavor in our article which smoking wood goes with which meat.
The best dishes for balcony BBQ
On a small balcony, you want dishes that are quick to prepare and produce little smoke. This works best:
- Chicken (thighs): Fast, tender, and perfect for direct heat. Use our Tex-Mex or Memphis rub for immediate flavor impact.
- Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, corn, and asparagus are ready in 10 minutes and produce hardly any smoke.
- Fish: Salmon and mackerel are ideal — quick grilling, little fat drips. Read our salmon recipe.
- Kebabs and skewers: Köfte, chicken skewers, and shrimp — quick, little mess, and perfect for a small grill rack.
Safety on the balcony
- Always keep a bucket of water or a small fire extinguisher handy.
- Never grill under a balcony above — the heat and smoke rise to the neighbors.
- Let the BBQ cool down completely before storing it or bringing it inside.
- Inform your neighbors beforehand — this prevents complaints and maintains good relations.