National Fire Protection Association
The National Fire Protection Association is an international nonprofit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards. In 2018, the NFPA claims to have 50,000 members and 9,000 volunteers working with the organizati…
How close can a propane tank be to a building?
The minimum distance from the opening of a building is 5 feet The minimum distance from any source of ignition is 10 feet Additionally, four (or fewer) 100-gallon tanks can be placed next to each other on a single property as long as placement restrictions are adhered to. 500-gallon propane tanks
What should I look for when buying a propane tank?
Care and consideration of surrounding buildings, driveways, awnings, house or building openings, property lines and more need to be taken into account when placing a propane tank in a legal and safe location.
What can you do with propane tanks in the Seacoast Region?
These propane tanks can do a whole lot of other things around your Seacoast region home. They can run outdoor fireplaces and firepits, pool and spa heaters, patio and deck heaters, insect traps, and portable generators. But there are some things you need to know about how to store them safely.
Can you put a propane tank in a dumpster?
Any residential propane service can dispose of large tanks on your property. But even if you have a small propane tank, never throw it in a dumpster! Most tanks, regardless of their size, have a residual amount of gas inside that can ignite or explode.
How close to deck can propane tank be?
100-pound propane tanks Still, when placing a 100-pound propane tank on your property, you must adhere to the following requirements: The minimum distance from the opening of a building is 3 feet. The minimum distance from any source of ignition is 5 feet.
Can you store propane on a porch?
Storing propane tanks outdoors is perfectly safe, but it's best to choose a spot that's away from your home.
Can you build around a propane tank?
No matter how far you place the walls of the enclosure from the tank, it is never okay to enclose your propane tank. Don't place it in a fully enclosed fence, box, crate, or other device designed to hide a propane tank. These methods restrict ventilation of propane fumes and pose a safety hazard.
Does a propane tank need to be on a slab?
Your propane tank needs a flat, stable surface to sit on. Many people install concrete or cement slabs because it's a clean, solid platform that can support the weight of a variety of tank sizes.
Where should I store my extra propane tank?
Propane tanks should always be stored outdoors, in well-ventilated areas. Storing propane tanks in garages or sheds is discouraged because if a valve isn't fully closed, vapors could escape and concentrate indoors. A flat, level outdoor area that is out of direct sunlight is the ideal location.
Can you leave a propane tank outside in the rain?
Keep your tank out of the rain, to avoid rusting and tank damage.. Propane tanks have a release valve that will help relieve pressure if temperatures are consistently high. The built-up pressure will leak out and dissipate into the air. To work properly and not leak liquid propane, the tank must remain upright.
What can I use to hide my propane tank?
Bamboo privacy screening, brick walls, rocks walls, or waterfalls all can hide a propane tank. Just be sure to leave enough space inside the fence to service and fill the tank. Avoid completely enclosing the propane tank with fencing.
Do propane tanks need to be covered?
If you want to improve the look of your propane tank, keep it in good condition, and protect your vehicle from damage during transportation, you should absolutely cover your propane tank.
Can I put a roof over my propane tank?
A cover over a propane or butane tank will not cause pocketing of gas, but it could hinder circulation by blocking breezes or winds.
Does a propane tank need a concrete pad?
After deciding on an appropriate tank size and before a propane tank is installed, the propane company will make all necessary arrangements for the proper placement of the propane tank. A concrete pad will need to be in place before the tank can be installed (concrete blocks may be used as an alternative).
How thick should a concrete pad be for a propane tank?
2 inch thickSOLID – 2 inch thick, fiber reinforced, high-strength 5,000-psi concrete. STRONG – Engineered to support standard sized upright propane tanks.
Are propane tanks safe in the sun?
While your tank should not be stored indoors, it should also not be stored in direct sunlight. On a hot sunny day, the temperature of a tank that's not properly stored could quickly go above 120°F. The hotter your tank gets, the greater the pressure will be inside the tank.
Are propane tanks safe in the sun?
While your tank should not be stored indoors, it should also not be stored in direct sunlight. On a hot sunny day, the temperature of a tank that's not properly stored could quickly go above 120°F. The hotter your tank gets, the greater the pressure will be inside the tank.
Can I store propane tank in shed?
Keep in mind that propane tanks should not be stored in a shed, garage, basement or attic, or brought indoors for any reason – they should only be stored in a dry, open, well-ventilated area outdoors. It is only safe to store your propane tank inside if it has been completely emptied of propane.
Where do you store propane tanks in the winter?
Smaller, portable propane tanks should never be stored indoors. To prepare a tank for winter, shut off the main valve and disconnect it from your grill's gas line. Keep it on a flat, stable surface, away from open flames, where it will be undisturbed.
Can propane tanks be left outside in winter?
Propane | Winter Care and Propane Tank Storage If you're wondering if you can safely be storing your propane grill or its propane tank storage outside during the winter, the answer is yes you can.
Where should you place your propane tank?
Before the propane tank installation process, you’ll need to consider the clearance and depth guidelines.
How many propane tanks can be placed on a property?
When placing a 100-gallon propane tank on your property, keep these measurements in mind: Additionally, four (or fewer) 100-gallon tanks can be placed next to each other on a single property as long as placement restrictions are adhered to.
What is a 100 gallon propane tank?
100-gallon propane tanks. A 100-gallon propane tank does well with equipment that requires substantial power but isn’t used every day. For example, you may use it for an emergency generator or heating outdoor swimming pools. When placing a 100-gallon propane tank on your property, keep these measurements in mind:
How many square feet is a 1000 gallon propane tank?
If you have a large home, like over 4,500 square feet, a 1000-gallon propane tank is your best bet for keeping your home heat running and your everyday appliances in operation. 1,000-gallon tanks are also common for agricultural purposes. For this size tank, distance measurements are as follows:
How far away from a building can you put a 100 lb propane tank?
They are also portable. Still, when placing a 100-pound propane tank on your property, you must adhere to the following requirements: The minimum distance from the opening of a building is 3 feet.
How many 100 gallon tanks can be placed next to each other?
Additionally, four (or fewer) 100-gallon tanks can be placed next to each other on a single property as long as placement restrictions are adhered to.
How far apart are 1000 gallon tanks?
If two, 1000-gallon tanks are placed within 3 feet of each other, each of the above clearance requirements increases to 25 feet.
How far should a propane tank be from a building?
The general rule, as seen in the table below, is that propane tanks should be at least 10 feet from the nearest buildings. Tank capacity (gallons) Minimum distance (feet) From tank to building. Between tanks. Underground.
What are the rules for propane tanks?
However, local authorities may impose stricter distance rules so you should check with the closest building or fire department, or propane companies, to find out the exact rules that apply to your area.
What is the point of transfer of propane?
According to the NFPA, the point of transfer is “the location where connections and disconnections are made or where LP-Gas is vented to the atmosphere in the course of transfer operations”. Given that filling propane tanks release propane into the atmosphere, the following distance rules apply.
Where should propane tanks be set?
National and local authorities have established that propane tanks should be setup at a certain distance from neighboring structures such as property lines, other propane tanks, parking lots, other buildings, playgrounds, or driveways. This is logical in the sense that propane is a flammable material and distance rules contribute to the safety ...
Does propane have safety precautions?
Again, propane companies are familiar with safety precautions related to relief valves so enquire with experts as you get quotes but do not forget to check companies’ safety record with local authorities (fire department) and with the companies themselves (emergency response record).
Is propane flammable?
This is logical in the sense that propane is a flammable material and distance rules contribute to the safety of your propane installation. Propane professionals know what distance rules apply on your property and for your propane tank (they depend on whether the tank is above- or underground and how large the propane tank is).
How far away from a house do you need to put a propane tank?
It’s common for propane tanks to require placement at least three feet away from a door or window. Depending on the size of the tank, ...
Why is propane tank placement important?
Another important factor in propane tank placement is proximity to an ignition source. This could be a stove pilot light, a gas fireplace, or a furnace. Although propane tank leaks are rare, they do happen. To avoid explosions and fire, keeping the tanks away from pilot lights of any kind is critically important.
How much soil do you need for a propane tank?
The requirements for underground propane tanks vary based on size. Smaller tanks of 100 gallons can be buried under 44″ of soil, while 1000-gallon tanks must be buried under at least 4’6″ of soil.
How much propane do Americans use?
Homeowners choose propane fuel for its cost friendliness and non-toxicity. It’s estimated that each year, Americans use 9.3 billion gallons of propane in the United States.
How far away should a tank be from a building?
Depending on the size of the tank, the minimum required distance can range from three feet to ten feet. The larger the tank, the further away from the building the tanks should be.
Can you throw a propane tank in a dumpster?
But even if you have a small propane tank, never throw it in a dumpster! Most tanks, regardless of their size, have a residual amount of gas inside that can ignite or explode. Residential propane tank installation may or may not include instructions for how to dispose of your used tank.
Can you have multiple propane tanks on site?
Having multiple tanks on-site changes the amount of distance that is required for safe propane tank placement.
What are distance rules for propane tanks?
Distance rules are applicable to propane tanks and their connections in relation to what surrounds them, whether it's a house or another propane tank. Care and consideration of surrounding buildings, driveways, awnings, house or building openings, property lines and more need to be taken into account when placing a propane tank in a legal ...
What is the point of transfer of propane?
The point of transfer is defined as "the location where connections and disconnections are are made or where LP-Gas is vented to the atmosphere in the course of transfer operations". The transfer of propane during the filling process results in residual liquid release between the tank fill valve and the hose end connection upon completion of transfer. When the hose is unhooked from the tank, liquid is released into the atmosphere. For this reason, the point of transfer is subject to distance requirements.
How many feet are tanks?
Generally, the majority of tanks fall under a ten foot rule with regard to buildings and houses. The standards and rules differ when locations such as playgrounds, parking lots, railroad tracks or other flammable materials are taken into consideration.
What is the purpose of the safety relief valve on an ASME propane tank?
A safety relief valve on an ASME propane tank, if fully activated, will vent propane vertically up and for this reason, propane tanks have to be installed out from under an awning or part of a building overhang.
What can a propane tank do?
They can run outdoor fireplaces and firepits, pool and spa heaters, patio and deck heaters, insect traps, and portable generators.
How often do you have to refill propane tanks?
DON’T refill outdated tanks with expired certification. It is against the law. Propane cylinders must be recertified 12 years after their date of manufacture and every five years after that.
Can you store propane tanks on the side?
DON’T store propane tanks on their sides, because that can lead to the release of liquid and vapors. DO store propane tanks on a dry, level surface. DON’T store propane tanks on wet ground or any other surface that gets wet, as that can lead to the tank rusting and pitting that could make the tank useless if not dangerous.
Do you inspect a propane tank?
DO inspect your propane tank frequently and replace if damaged.
Can you leave a propane tank in a closed vehicle?
DON’T leave propane tanks in a closed vehicle. That means no running other errands while exchanging or refilling your propane tank. DO get your propane tank professionally refilled by a qualified propane distributor. DON’T refill outdated tanks with expired certification. It is against the law.
How far away from a water heater should a propane tank be?
Vertical Tanks. The requirements for the clearance around vertical propane tanks under 125 gallons depends on the location of ignition sources, venting windows and doors. The tank itself may be placed against the house or building, but it has to be at least 10 feet from an ignition source such as a water heater and 3 feet from a venting window ...
How big is a horizontal propane tank?
The size of the vessel normally depends on the propane requirements and the size of the structure using the fuel. The requirements for the clearance around the 330 and the 550 gallon propane tanks is at least 10 feet from ...
How many gallon tanks are there in a subterranean tank?
Subterranean Tanks. Subterranean tanks are generally available as 500 and 1,000 gallon vessels. After installation is complete, the only visible part of these tanks is the riser cover, which is about 1 foot high and 1 foot in diameter.
How far is a tank from a building?
from any important building, adjacent containers or adjoining property line that can be built upon. It may be 9.5 ft. from the important building and did not contribute to the event, but the violation will still be used to suggest a lack of concern for safety.
How far off property line is a tank setback?
A rare issue is the requirement under Section 6.3.1.1 of NFPA 58 (2014) that the tank be 10 ft. from the adjoining property line upon which a home could be built. This applies to 150- to 500-gallon tanks. The distance varies per the size of the tank. The point often missed is the tank setback requirement is from adjoining property. If the adjoining homeowner can build up to 5 ft. from his property line, a 500-gallon tank needs to be at least 5 ft. off the property line upon which it is set, which equates to 10 ft. This is in addition to being at least 10 ft. from any significant building or another 150- to 500-gallon tank. When setting a tank or going to fill a customer-owned tank for the first time, you need to verify that the tank build-out setback requirements have been met. The homeowner should have the lot setbacks on a plat that he can share with you.
How far should a tank be from a relief valve?
Another code violation is when the cylinder or tank is too close to an opening below the discharge point. Cylinders must be 3 ft. horizontally from a relief valve that may discharge to an opening below it. For ASME tanks, the distance must be 5 ft. horizontally from the relief valve discharge to an opening below it. If the discharge could be from a relief valve, vent discharge or filling connection to an exterior source of ignition, the distance must be at least 5 ft. for cylinders and 10 ft. for ASME tanks to any direct-vent appliances and mechanical ventilation air intakes.
What is a tank placement violation?
Tank placement code violations tend to occur when marketers deliver to customer-owned tanks. Unless the code violation is obvious, it is often ignored. Some code violations also occur when the marketer is the entity that sets the tank.
Can you read data plates on ASME tanks?
We also see data plates on ASME tanks that are difficult to read. This is a code requirement for ASME tanks. We find that the tank has always been used for propane, but if the data plate is not legible it is a strike against the marketer, as the code says it should not be filled. So, check the data plate and be sure it is legible. Take a photo of it on first delivery to document its condition.
Can a gas tank cause a fire?
We rarely see these types of tank and cylinder placement issues cause gas leaks and subsequent fires, but they do cause static that can keep otherwise defensible cases alive.
Can a propane tank be a violation of the gas code?
Yet it is more often the case that the tank code violation does not contribute to the gas leak but is used to place the propane marketer in a bad light. The goal in this is to get in front of a sympathetic jury that will award large sums to a badly injured plaintiff or someone who has suffered a significant property loss.
