Grill at least 10 feet from the house, and use a drip pan

Yes, you can grill on a deck, but you need to manage fire risk and grease.

The biggest mistake people make is putting the grill too close to the house or the railing. Keep it at least 10 feet away from siding, windows, and railings—especially if those railings are wood. Heat and grease splatter will damage both. A drip pan under the grates is cheap insurance.

Never leave the grill unattended. This sounds obvious, but it’s the number one cause of deck fires. Also check underneath: dry leaves, a stray paper towel, or that cushion you forgot about can catch a spark. Have a fire extinguisher (not just a garden hose) within reach.

If your deck is wood, a charcoal grill is riskier than gas because coals hold heat long after you’re done. Gas is easier to control. Either way, don’t cook if the deck is dry and windy.

Your deck is not a campfire pit — treat it like a kitchen with a flame.