Summer has finally arrived in Germany — and with it, that unmistakable itch to light the fire, gather your people, and kuier around the braai.
But before you strike the match, there are a few German rules and realities you need to know… because here, even a braai comes with regulations.
Am I allowed to grill on the Balcony?
As a tenant, you are generally allowed to grill on the balcony, terrace or in the garden.
There is no law prohibiting it.
However, landlords can explicitly allow, restrict or prohibit grilling in your rental agreement.
They can also specify if you are allowed to use charcoal.
When am I not allowed to grill?
- When it is stipulated in your rental agreement that you are not allowed to grill on your balcony or in the garden.
- When the smoke from your fire or grill goes into the apartment or home of your neighbours. When this happens, you are committing an administrative offence, and you can be fined for it.
What can I do?
- First of all, read your rental contract and make sure you know what the stipulations are.
- You should always be considerate towards your neighbours,<l/i>
- Electric grills make less smoke than a charcoal grill
- If possible, work with aluminium trays.
- Adhere to the applicable quiet periods (Ruhezeiten)
These rules are governed by the German Tenants’ Association (DMB).
Anyone who disregards these rules risks being warned or even given notice.
It can also result in the termination of your rental contract.
A case that went to court was in 2002 in the district of Essen. The tenant disregarded the rules and ignored warnings and had to move out as a result. (LG Essen, judgment of 07.02.2002, Az .: 10 S 438/01).
Another in Düsseldorf – “A barbecue party with a total of seven guests was organized in the garden of an apartment building. As a result, smoke penetrated through the windows of the neighbouring apartment. Their residents saw themselves on the one hand disturbed by the smoke, on the other hand by the additional noise level. The tenant, who was responsible for the grilling, was consequently fined (OLG Düsseldorf, judgment of 26.05.1995, ref .: 5 Ss (OWi) 149/95 – (OWi) 79/95 I).”
What else do I need to know?
If you are allowed to grill at your home, the smells and noise from a grill party should be tolerated by your neighbours to some extent. Take notice of the quiet periods and make sure to keep noise levels acceptable. These rules are governed by the local municipality
Wood and charcoal
Hardwood that produces a lot of embers with little smoke is the best to grill with. This includes:
- Beech (Buche) and Birch(Birke) wood are suitable for meat and fish dishes. It gives food a smoky flavour.
- Oakwood (Eiche) can also be used; it burns hotter and does not flavour the meat
- Maple wood (Ahornholz ) is suitable for vegetables and fish
- Wild Cherry wood (Wildkirsche) is particularly suitable for pork, veal, poultry and fish
Notice!!
- Do not use soft wood like Spruce(Fichte), Fir (Tanne), yew (Eibe), larch (Lärchen) or pine(Kiefer) as these have a high resin content and can make the food bitter.
- Also, avoid using oily wood such as Cedar (Zeder), Eucalyptus, and Thuja (Arborvitae as they can cause health problems. These release compounds that can cause respiratory or digestive issues and are not safe for cooking
- Never use wood that has been treated, for example, telephone poles or railway sleepers. These may contain creosote, heavy metals, or other toxic substances.
Boeries, Biltong and Braai spices
Looking for some tasty South African treats and drinks for your next braai? Check out these businesses selling Boerewors, Biltong, and braai spices. Some even have your favourite SA beverages available!
Meat and fish
German and South African meat cuts don’t always match up, which can make following familiar recipes a bit tricky.
On our Meat page, we break down the German cuts and share a selection of trusted online shops where you can find the right meat.
Meat
🇿🇦 Meat the Difference: A South African’s Guide to Buying Meat in Germany 🇩🇪 Looking for proper boerewors? Wondering why German Rindfleisch doesn’t taste quite like home? Or scratching your head at all the unfamiliar beef cuts? Get to know the difference between German and South African beef cuts, learn the right words at the butcher, and discover where to find quality meat that feels like home. German beef cuts German Cut English Equivalent Notes
Fish and Seafood
Fish and Seafood From Snoek to Seelachs: A Taste of Home Beneath German Waters Craving that perfect piece of hake? Looking for prawns that remind you of home? We’ve put together a list of the best places across Germany to buy fresh seafood — from speciality shops to supermarket counters that stock the good stuff. You’ll also find a handy vocabulary guide so you can confidently tell your Seelachs from your Heilbutt — no more guessing
Where to shop for a grill and accessories
- Some of the most popular brands are Campingaz, Weber, Burnhard and Grill Fürst
- You can buy equipment and accessories at shops like OBI, Hornbach
- Vuur en rook in the Netherlands
- Ons gaan Braai in the Netherlands
Potjie
Potjie Resepte
Potjiekos – Slow Cooking, Strong Traditions Where good food takes its time… and the best memories are made around the fire.Discover authentic recipes, essential tips, and where to find your own potjie in Germany. Potjiekos isn’t just a meal—it’s a ritual. Layered, never stirred, and cooked slowly over coals, it
The following online shops sell Potjies:
- Die Spens
- Ons gaan Braai and Vuur en rook in the Netherlands
- Amazon.de
Recipes
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