Summer is just around the corner, the evenings are getting longer, and the anticipation of freshly grilled food is growing – it's the perfect time for backyard barbecues . With SKOTTI , every barbecue evening becomes a highlight and your garden becomes the ultimate grilling zone. But to avoid any trouble with the neighbors, you should heed the following tips.

How often and where can I grill in my own garden?

There are no nationwide regulations regarding barbecuing in your own garden in Germany, but some basic guidelines can help you avoid disputes with neighbors and legal issues. Above all, it's important to be considerate of your neighbors and minimize nuisance caused by smoke and noise.

While there's nothing fundamentally wrong with barbecuing on your own property, some federal states have new regulations . For example, in some regions, barbecuing is only permitted at the very edge of the garden, 25 meters from the house wall. This can be particularly problematic in small gardens. Furthermore, regulations are increasingly restricting how often you're allowed to use a charcoal grill per year. While some federal states allow up to 10 barbecues per year, others allow only five.

Courts have ruled differently in the past. For example, the Bonn District Court allowed barbecues once a month in the summer, with 48 hours' notice required. Other rulings, such as the one from the Berlin-Schöneberg District Court, stipulate that barbecues should not last longer than two hours and should not take place after 9 p.m.

In general , the less smoke and noise you create, the more often you can grill.

Ready, Set, Grill: How to prepare perfectly

Before the backyard barbecue fun can really begin, a little preparation is required. Whether you're an experienced grill master or a novice, a few simple steps will ensure your BBQ evening is a complete success. From choosing the right barbecue area to informing your neighbors to firing up the grill: Here you'll learn everything you need to know for a relaxed and successful barbecue in your own backyard .

1. Pay attention to your neighbors

Backyard grilling is a real hit, but there are still a few rules to follow! Legal regulations aren't the same everywhere, but consideration is key . If your neighbors suddenly complain that your charcoal grill is filling their apartment with smoke, you could run into trouble under the Emissions Control Act and face fines. If you fire up your grill during quiet hours (after 10 p.m.), you could face fines of up to €5,000—that's no joke! So be sure to find out what the grilling regulations are in your state or residential complex.

2. Minimize smoke and noise pollution

Use a gas or electric grill, as these produce less smoke. Make sure the grilling area is far enough away from neighbors' properties and keep the noise level moderate, especially during quiet hours.

3. Be considerate in apartment buildings

Barbecues in the garden of an apartment building can be a wonderful way to bring neighbors together and enjoy a pleasant evening. But there are a few things to keep in mind to keep the peace. First, you should make sure that barbecuing is permitted in the communal garden and that there are no house rules against it. Consideration is especially important here : Inform your neighbors of your plans well in advance.

4. Choose the right grill

Whether gas, charcoal, or electric, each type of grill has its advantages . Gas grills are quick and easy to use, charcoal grills offer an authentic smoky flavor, and electric grills are perfect for quick grilling with minimal preparation.

Are you looking for a way to grill without thick smoke? Gas grills are perfect for you! Powered by propane or natural gas, they produce hardly any smoke – perfect for densely populated areas or where strict smoking regulations apply. With a SKOTTI gas grill, you not only have a flexible and uncomplicated device, but also precise temperature control. This means you can cook your food to perfection without enveloping your neighbors in a cloud of smoke. Simple, clean, and ingenious – that's how grilling works today!

5. Check your grill accessories

Before you get started, be sure to check your grilling accessories . A good pair of tongs, heat-resistant gloves, and a reliable grill thermometer are indispensable tools for the grill. After all, you don't want to play sausage turner and burn your fingers, do you? Also, don't forget to have plenty of fuel, like gas cylinders or charcoal, on hand. Nothing is more embarrassing than realizing mid-grill that your fire has gone out! With the right preparation, your barbecue evening will be a relaxing and enjoyable experience – without any nasty surprises. So, get to the grill and let the summer evening begin!

6. Create a cozy atmosphere

Good lighting and comfortable seating make your barbecue evening truly perfect. A few garden torches or fairy lights create the perfect atmosphere , while comfortable garden furniture invites you to linger. Imagine sitting with your friends under sparkling solar lanterns or lanterns, enjoying the balmy summer night. An outdoor string of lights here, a few flickering lanterns there – and your garden will suddenly look like an inviting, warm paradise. With the right lighting, your barbecue evening will not only be delicious, but also super cozy and atmospheric.

7. Ensure diversity on the grill

At SKOTTI, we love variety! From classic steaks and sausages to vegetarian options like grilled vegetables or even pizza from the grill – let your creativity run wild and delight your guests with a diverse barbecue buffet. We'll provide you with the perfect recipes for your next barbecue evening.

8. Pay attention to safety

Position your grill far enough away from neighboring properties and make sure it's not directly against fences or house walls for fire safety reasons. Also, keep a fire extinguisher or fire blanket nearby and ensure children and pets stay well away from the grill.

Garden + SKOTTI gas grill = Perfect combination

• Flexibility meets style : SKOTTI isn't just a grill—it's a statement! Its sleek, modern design fits perfectly into any garden, and thanks to its mobility, you can set it up exactly where the party is. Whether on a sun deck, a patio, or under an old apple tree, SKOTTI looks great anywhere.

• Fast and efficient : Who wants to wait a long time for the coals to finally heat up? With SKOTTI, you simply light the gas and are ready to grill in minutes. More time to enjoy with friends and family, less waiting.

• Clean and safe : SKOTTI not only ensures delicious grilled food, but also keeps your garden clean. The integrated POOL grease tray catches all drippings, thus minimizing the risk of grease fires. Safety and cleanliness you can see and feel.

Your garden, your stage: Barbecue fun with SKOTTI

Grilling in the garden is more than just a meal—it's an experience that tastes of freedom and strengthens community. With SKOTTI by your side, every barbecue day is an uncomplicated, safe, and ultra-flexible pleasure. So why wait? Fire up the grill, invite your loved ones, and turn your garden into the stage for unforgettable barbecue moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I barbecue in my garden?

Yes, in principle, you are allowed to grill in your own garden. However, you should be considerate of your neighbors and avoid unnecessary smoke and noise. It's best to inform your neighbors in advance about planned barbecues to avoid misunderstandings. Also, pay attention to local regulations and fire safety measures.

2. Which grill is best for my garden?

Different types of grills are suitable for the garden, depending on your preferences and the space available. Charcoal grills are popular for their authentic smoky flavor, while gas grills are quick and easy to use. Electric grills or our SKOTTI are a good alternative if you have limited space or have to comply with strict smoking regulations. And if you want to stay mobile, our portable SKOTTI grill is the perfect match.

3. How can I minimize smoke when grilling?

To minimize smoke development when grilling, follow these tips:

• Use well-burned charcoal or briquettes, as these produce less smoke than fresh coals.
• Avoid dripping fat into the embers by using our grease tray or an indirect grilling method.
• Clean the grill grate regularly to remove burnt residue that can cause smoke.