Liquefied Petroleum Gases

This chapter establishes requirements for the storage, handling, transportation, and installation of liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas) and related equipment.

3801 — General

3801.1 Scope. Storage, handling and transportation of liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas) and the installation of LP-gas equipment pertinent to systems for such uses shall comply with this chapter and NFPA 58. Properties of LP-gases shall be determined in accordance with Appendix B of NFPA 58.

3801.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sections 105.6 and 105.7.

Distributors shall not fill an LP-gas container for which a permit is required unless a permit for installation has been issued for that location by the fire code official.

3801.3 Construction documents. Where a single LP-gas container is more than 2,000 gallons (7570 L) in water capacity or the aggregate water capacity of LP-gas containers is more than 4,000 gallons (15 140 L), the installer shall submit construction documents for such installation.

3802 — Definitions

3802.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein.

LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS (LP-gas). A material which is composed predominantly of the following hydrocarbons or mixtures of them: propane, propylene, butane (normal butane or isobutane) and butylenes.

LP-GAS CONTAINER. Any vessel, including cylinders, tanks, portable tanks and cargo tanks, used for transporting or storing LP-gases.

3803 — Installation of Equipment

3803.1 General. LP-gas equipment shall be installed in accordance with the International Fuel Gas Code and NFPA 58, except as otherwise provided in this chapter.

3803.2 Use of LP-gas containers in buildings. The use of LP-gas containers in buildings shall be in accordance with Sections 3803.2.1 and 3803.2.2.

3803.2.1 Portable containers. Portable LP-gas containers, as defined in NFPA 58, shall not be used in buildings except as specified in NFPA 58 and Sections 3803.2.1.1 through 3803.2.1.7. 3803.2.1.1 Use in basement, pit or similar location. LP-gas containers shall not be used in a basement, pit or similar location where heavier-than-air gas might collect. LP-gas containers shall not be used in an above-grade underfloor space or basement unless such location is provided with an approved means of ventilation. Exception: Use with self-contained torch assemblies in accordance with Section 3803.2.1.6. 3803.2.1.2 Construction and temporary heating. Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used in buildings or areas of buildings undergoing construction or for temporary heating as set forth in Sections 6.19.4,6.19.5 and 6.19.8 of NFPA 58. 3803.2.1.3 Group F occupancies. In Group F occupancies, portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used to supply quantities necessary for processing, research or experimentation. Where manifolded, the aggregate water capacity of such containers shall not exceed 735 pounds (334 kg) per manifold. Where multiple manifolds of such containers are present in the same room, each manifold shall be separated from other manifolds by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm). 3803.2.1.4 Group E and I occupancies. In Group E and I occupancies, portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used for research and experimentation. Such containers shall not be used in classrooms. Such containers shall not exceed a 50-pound (23 kg) water capacity in occupancies used for educational purposes and shall not exceed a 12-pound (5 kg) water capacity in occupancies used for institutional purposes. Where more than one such container is present in the same room, each container shall be separated from other containers by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) . 3803.2.1.5 Demonstration uses. Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used temporarily for demonstrations and public exhibitions. Such containers shall not exceed a water capacity of 12 pounds (5 kg). Where more than one such container is present in the same room, each container shall be separated from other containers by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) . 3803.2.1.6 Use with self-contained torch assemblies. Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used to supply approved self-contained torch assemblies or similar appliances. Such containers shall not exceed a water capacity of 2½ pounds (1 kg). 3803.2.1.7 Use for food preparation. Where approved, listed LP-gas commercial food service appliances are allowed to be used for food-preparation within restaurants and in attended commercial food-catering operations in accordance with the International Fuel Gas Code, the International Mechanical Code and NFPA 58. 3803.2.2 Industrial vehicles and floor maintenance machines. LP-gas containers on industrial vehicles and floor maintenance machines shall comply with Sections 11.12 and 11.13 ofNFPA 58.

3803.2.1 Portable containers. Portable LP-gas containers, as defined in NFPA 58, shall not be used in buildings except as specified in NFPA 58 and Sections 3803.2.1.1 through 3803.2.1.7.

3803.2.1.1 Use in basement, pit or similar location. LP-gas containers shall not be used in a basement, pit or similar location where heavier-than-air gas might collect. LP-gas containers shall not be used in an above-grade underfloor space or basement unless such location is provided with an approved means of ventilation. Exception: Use with self-contained torch assemblies in accordance with Section 3803.2.1.6. 3803.2.1.2 Construction and temporary heating. Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used in buildings or areas of buildings undergoing construction or for temporary heating as set forth in Sections 6.19.4,6.19.5 and 6.19.8 of NFPA 58. 3803.2.1.3 Group F occupancies. In Group F occupancies, portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used to supply quantities necessary for processing, research or experimentation. Where manifolded, the aggregate water capacity of such containers shall not exceed 735 pounds (334 kg) per manifold. Where multiple manifolds of such containers are present in the same room, each manifold shall be separated from other manifolds by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm). 3803.2.1.4 Group E and I occupancies. In Group E and I occupancies, portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used for research and experimentation. Such containers shall not be used in classrooms. Such containers shall not exceed a 50-pound (23 kg) water capacity in occupancies used for educational purposes and shall not exceed a 12-pound (5 kg) water capacity in occupancies used for institutional purposes. Where more than one such container is present in the same room, each container shall be separated from other containers by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) . 3803.2.1.5 Demonstration uses. Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used temporarily for demonstrations and public exhibitions. Such containers shall not exceed a water capacity of 12 pounds (5 kg). Where more than one such container is present in the same room, each container shall be separated from other containers by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) . 3803.2.1.6 Use with self-contained torch assemblies. Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used to supply approved self-contained torch assemblies or similar appliances. Such containers shall not exceed a water capacity of 2½ pounds (1 kg). 3803.2.1.7 Use for food preparation. Where approved, listed LP-gas commercial food service appliances are allowed to be used for food-preparation within restaurants and in attended commercial food-catering operations in accordance with the International Fuel Gas Code, the International Mechanical Code and NFPA 58.

3803.2.1.1 Use in basement, pit or similar location. LP-gas containers shall not be used in a basement, pit or similar location where heavier-than-air gas might collect. LP-gas containers shall not be used in an above-grade underfloor space or basement unless such location is provided with an approved means of ventilation.

Exception: Use with self-contained torch assemblies in accordance with Section 3803.2.1.6.

3803.2.1.2 Construction and temporary heating. Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used in buildings or areas of buildings undergoing construction or for temporary heating as set forth in Sections 6.19.4,6.19.5 and 6.19.8 of NFPA 58.

3803.2.1.3 Group F occupancies. In Group F occupancies, portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used to supply quantities necessary for processing, research or experimentation. Where manifolded, the aggregate water capacity of such containers shall not exceed 735 pounds (334 kg) per manifold. Where multiple manifolds of such containers are present in the same room, each manifold shall be separated from other manifolds by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm).

3803.2.1.4 Group E and I occupancies. In Group E and I occupancies, portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used for research and experimentation. Such containers shall not be used in classrooms. Such containers shall not exceed a 50-pound (23 kg) water capacity in occupancies used for educational purposes and shall not exceed a 12-pound (5 kg) water capacity in occupancies used for institutional purposes. Where more than one such container is present in the same room, each container shall be separated from other containers by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) .

3803.2.1.5 Demonstration uses. Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used temporarily for demonstrations and public exhibitions. Such containers shall not exceed a water capacity of 12 pounds (5 kg). Where more than one such container is present in the same room, each container shall be separated from other containers by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) .

3803.2.1.6 Use with self-contained torch assemblies. Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used to supply approved self-contained torch assemblies or similar appliances. Such containers shall not exceed a water capacity of 2½ pounds (1 kg).

3803.2.1.7 Use for food preparation. Where approved, listed LP-gas commercial food service appliances are allowed to be used for food-preparation within restaurants and in attended commercial food-catering operations in accordance with the International Fuel Gas Code, the International Mechanical Code and NFPA 58.

3803.2.2 Industrial vehicles and floor maintenance machines. LP-gas containers on industrial vehicles and floor maintenance machines shall comply with Sections 11.12 and 11.13 ofNFPA 58.

3803.3 Location of equipment and piping. Equipment and piping shall not be installed in locations where such equipment and piping is prohibited by the International Fuel Gas Code.

3804 — Location of Lp-gas Containers

3804.1 General. The storage and handling of LP-gas and the installation and maintenance of related equipment shall comply with NFPA 58 and be subject to the approval of the fire code ofl1cial, except as provided in this chapter.

3804.2 Maximum capacity within established limits. Within the limits established by law restricting the storage of liquefied petroleum gas for the protection of heavily populated or congested areas, the aggregate capacity of anyone installation shall not exceed a water capacity of 2,000 gallons (7570 L) (see Section 3 ofthe Sample Ordinance for Adoption ofthe International Fire Code on page xiii).

Exception: In particular installations, this capacity limit shall be determined by the fire code ofl1cial, after consideration of special features such as topographical conditions, nature ofoccupancy, and proximity to buildings, capacity of proposed LP-gas containers, degree of fire protection to be provided and capabilities of the local fire department.

3804.3 Container location. LP-gas containers shall be located with respect to buildings, public ways and lot lines ofadjoining property that can be built upon, in accordance with Table 3804.3.

3804.3.1 Special hazards. LP-gas containers shall also be located with respect to special hazards including, but not limited to, above-ground flammable or combustible liquid

3804.3.1 Special hazards. LP-gas containers shall also be located with respect to special hazards including, but not limited to, above-ground flammable or combustible liquid

A table appears here in the adopted code. Refer to the official source for the full table.

tanks, oxygen or gaseous hydrogen containers, flooding or electric power lines as specified in Section 6.4.5 of NFPA 58.

tanks, oxygen or gaseous hydrogen containers, flooding or electric power lines as specified in Section 6.4.5 of NFPA 58.

3804.4 Multiple LP-gas container installations. Multiple LP-gas container installations with a total water storage capacity of more than 180,000 gallons (681 300 L) [150,000-gallon (567 750 L) LP-gas capacity] shall be subdivided into groups containing not more than 180,000 gallons (681 300 L) in each group. Such groups shall be separated by a distance of not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm), unless the containers are protected in accordance with one of the following:

Mounded in an approved manner. Protected with approvedinsulation on areas that are subject to impingement of ignited gas from pipelines or other leakage. Protected by firewalls of approved construction. Protected by an approvedsystem for application ofwater as specified in Table 6.4.2 of NFPA 58. Protected by other approved means.

Mounded in an approved manner.
Protected with approvedinsulation on areas that are subject to impingement of ignited gas from pipelines or other leakage.
Protected by firewalls of approved construction.
Protected by an approvedsystem for application ofwater as specified in Table 6.4.2 of NFPA 58.
Protected by other approved means.

Where one ofthese forms ofprotection is provided, the separation shall not be less than 25 feet (7620 mm) between LP-gas container groups.

Worked example

Scenario: A new restaurant plans to install a 500-gallon LP-gas tank for kitchen appliances.

Explanation: The restaurant's design must comply with NFPA 58 for container placement and obtain approval from the local fire code official before installation.

3805 — Prohibited Use of Lp-gas

3805.1 Nonapproved equipment. LP-gas shall not be used for the purpose of operating devices or equipment unless such device or equipment is approved for use with LP-gas.

3805.2 Release to the atmosphere. LP-gas shall not be released to the atmosphere, except through an approved liquid-level gauge or other approved device.

Worked example

Scenario: A contractor wants to use a standard residential gas grill, modified to run on LP-gas, for a commercial outdoor event without checking its approval.

Explanation: This use is prohibited because the grill, as modified for LP-gas, is not an 'approved' device for that fuel. Only equipment specifically designed and approved for LP-gas can be used.

3806 — Dispensing and Overfilling

3806.1 Attendants. Dispensing of LP-gas shall be performed by a qualified attendant.

3806.2 Overfilling. LP-gas containers shall not be filled or maintained with LP-gas in excess of either the volume determined using the fixed liquid-level gauge installed by the manufacturer or the weight determined by the required percentage of the water capacity marked on the container. Portable LP-gas containers shall not be refilled unless equipped with an overfilling prevention device (OPD) where required by Section 5.7.3 ofNFPA 58.

3806.3 Dispensing locations. The point of transfer of LP-gas from one LP-gas container to another shall be separated from exposures as specified in NFPA 58.

Worked example

Scenario: A convenience store owner decides to allow employees without specific training to refill portable LP-gas cylinders for customers.

Explanation: This is a violation because LP-gas dispensing must only be performed by a 'qualified attendant' who has received the necessary training and certification.

3807 — Safety Precautions and Devices

3807.1 Safety devices. Safety devices on LP-gas containers, equipment and systems shall not be tampered with or made ineffective.

3807.2 Smoking and other sources of ignition. "No Smoking" signs complying with Section 310 shall be posted when required by the fire code official. Smoking within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a point of transfer, while filling operations are in progress at LP-gas containers or vehicles, shall be prohibited.

Control of other sources of ignition shall comply with Chapter 3 of this code and Section 6.22 of NFPA 58.

3807.3 Clearance to combustibles. Weeds, grass, brush, trash and other combustible materials shall be kept a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) from LP-gas tanks or containers.

3807.4 Protecting containers from vehicles. Where exposed to vehicular damage due to proximity to alleys, driveways or parking areas, LP-gas containers, regulators and piping shall be protected in accordance with Section 312.

Worked example

Scenario: During a routine maintenance check, a technician notices that the pressure relief valve on an LP-gas storage tank has been intentionally wired shut to prevent nuisance venting.

Explanation: This is a direct violation of the code, as safety devices on LP-gas systems must not be tampered with or rendered ineffective, as they are crucial for preventing dangerous pressure build-ups.

3808 — Fire Protection

3808.1 General. Fire protection shall be provided for installations having storage LP-gas containers with a water capacity of more than 4,000 gallons (15 140 L), as required by Section 6.25 ofNFPA 58.

3808.2 Portable fire extinguishers. Portable fire extinguishers complying with Section 906 shall be provided as specified in NFPA 58.

Worked example

Scenario: An industrial facility plans to install several large LP-gas storage tanks, with a combined water capacity of 6,000 gallons, to fuel its operations.

Explanation: Since the total water capacity exceeds 4,000 gallons, the installation must incorporate fire protection measures as specified in Section 6.25 of NFPA 58, which may include fire detection, suppression, or specific separation distances.

3809 — Storage of Portable Lp-gas

3809.1 General. Storage of portable LP-gas containers of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) or less, whether filled, partially filled or empty, at consumer sites or distribution points, and for resale by dealers or resellers shall comply with Sections 3809.2 through 3809.14.

Exceptions: LP-gas containers that have not previously been in LP-gas service. LP-gas containers at distribution plants. LP-gas containers at consumer sites or distribution points, which are connected for use.

Exceptions:

LP-gas containers that have not previously been in LP-gas service.
LP-gas containers at distribution plants.
LP-gas containers at consumer sites or distribution points, which are connected for use.

3809.2 Exposure hazards. LP-gas containers in storage shall be located in a manner that minimizes exposure to excessive temperature rise, physical damage or tampering.

3809.3 Position. LP-gas containers in storage having individual water capacity greater than 21/ 2 pounds (1 kg) [nominal I-pound (0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity] shall be positioned with the pressure relief valve in direct communication with the vapor space of the container.

3809.4 Separation from means of egress. LP-gas containers stored in buildings in accordance with Sections 3809.9 and 3809.11 shall not be located near exit access doors, exits, stairways or in areas normally used, or intended to be used, as a means ofegress.

3809.5 Quantity. Empty LP-gas containers that have been in LP-gas service shall be considered as full containers for the purpose of determining the maximum quantities of LP-gas allowed in Sections 3809.9 and 3809.11.

3809.6 Storage on roofs. LP-gas containers that are not connected for use shall not be stored on roofs.

3809.7 Storage in basement, pit or similar location. LP-gas containers shall not be stored in a basement, pit or similar location where heavier-than-air gas might collect. LP-gas containers shall not be stored in above-grade underfloor spaces or basements unless such location is provided with an approved means of ventilation.

Exception: Department of Transportation (DOTn) specification cylinders with a maximum water capacity of 2½ pounds (1 kg) for use in completely self-contained hand torches and similar applications. The quantity of LP-gas shall not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).

3809.8 Protection ofvalves on LP-gas containers in storage. LP-gas container valves shall be protected by screw-on-type caps or collars which shall be securely in place on all containers stored regardless of whether they are full, partially full or empty. Container outlet valves shall be closed or plugged.

3809.9 Storage within buildings accessible to the public. Department of Transportation (DOTn) specification cylinders with maximum water capacity of 21/ 2 pounds (1 kg) used in completely self-contained hand torches and similar applications are allowed to be stored or displayed in a building accessible to the public. The quantity of LP-gas shall not exceed 200 pounds (91 kg) except as provided in Section 3809.11.

3809.10 Storage within buildings not accessible to the public. The maximum quantity allowed in one storage location in buildings not accessible to the public, such as industrial buildings, shall not exceed a water capacity of 735 pounds (334 kg) [nominal 300 pounds (136 kg) of LP-gas]. Where additional storage locations are required on the same floor within the same building, they shall be separated by a minimum of 300 feet (91 440 mm). Storage beyond these limitations shall comply with Section 3809.11.

3809.10.1 Quantities on equipment and vehicles. LP-gas containers carried as part of service equipment on highway mobile vehicles need not be considered in the total storage capacity in Section 3809.1 0, provided such vehicles are stored in private garages and do not carry more than three LP-gas containers with a total aggregate LP-gas capacity not exceeding 100 pounds (45.4 kg) per vehicle. LP-gas container valves shall be closed.

3809.10.1 Quantities on equipment and vehicles. LP-gas containers carried as part of service equipment on highway mobile vehicles need not be considered in the total storage capacity in Section 3809.1 0, provided such vehicles are stored in private garages and do not carry more than three LP-gas containers with a total aggregate LP-gas capacity not exceeding 100 pounds (45.4 kg) per vehicle. LP-gas container valves shall be closed.

3809.11 Storage within rooms used for gas manufacturing. Storage within buildings or rooms used for gas manufacturing, gas storage, gas-air mixing and vaporization, and compressors not associated with liquid transfer shall comply with Sections 3809.11.1 and 3809.11.2.

3809.11.1 Quantity limits. The maximum quantity of LP-gas shall be 10,000 pounds (4540 kg). 3809.11.2 Construction. The construction of such buildings and rooms shall comply with requirements for Group H occupancies in the International BUilding Code, Chapter 10 of NFPA 58 and both of the following: Adequate vents shall be provided to the outside at both top and bottom, located at least 5 feet (1524 mm) from building openings. The entire area shall be classified for the purposes of ignition source control in accordance with Section 6.22 ofNFPA 58.

3809.11.1 Quantity limits. The maximum quantity of LP-gas shall be 10,000 pounds (4540 kg).

3809.11.2 Construction. The construction of such buildings and rooms shall comply with requirements for Group H occupancies in the International BUilding Code, Chapter 10 of NFPA 58 and both of the following:

Adequate vents shall be provided to the outside at both top and bottom, located at least 5 feet (1524 mm) from building openings. The entire area shall be classified for the purposes of ignition source control in accordance with Section 6.22 ofNFPA 58.

Adequate vents shall be provided to the outside at both top and bottom, located at least 5 feet (1524 mm) from building openings.
The entire area shall be classified for the purposes of ignition source control in accordance with Section 6.22 ofNFPA 58.

3809.12 Location of storage outside of buildings. Storage outside of buildings of LP-gas containers awaiting use, resale or part of a cylinder exchange program shall be located in accordance with Table 3809.12.

3809.13 Protection of containers. LP-gas containers shall be stored within a suitable enclosure or otherwise protected against tampering. Vehicular protection shall be provided as required by the fire code official.

A table appears here in the adopted code. Refer to the official source for the full table.

3809.14 Alternative location and protection of storage. Where the provisions of Sections 3809.12 and 3809.13 are impractical at construction sites, or at buildings or structures undergoing major renovation or repairs, the storage of containers shall be as required by the fire code official.

Worked example

Scenario: A hardware store wants to store 20-pound LP-gas cylinders for resale to customers.

Explanation: The store must ensure the storage of these portable containers, which are less than 1,000 pounds each, complies with specific requirements outlined in Sections 3809.2 through 3809.14 of this chapter regarding location, ventilation, and separation.

3810 — Lp-gas Containers Not in Service

3810.1 Temporarily out of service. LP-gas containers whose use has been temporarily discontinued shall comply with all of the following:

Be disconnected from appliance piping. Have LP-gas container outlets, except relief valves, closed or plugged. Be positioned with the relief valve in direct communication with the LP-gas container vapor space.

Be disconnected from appliance piping.
Have LP-gas container outlets, except relief valves, closed or plugged.
Be positioned with the relief valve in direct communication with the LP-gas container vapor space.

3810.2 Permanently out of service. LP-gas containers to be placed permanently out of service shall be removed from the site.

3811 — Parking and Garaging

3811.1 General. Parking of LP-gas tank vehicles shall comply with Sections 3811.2 and 3811.3.

Exception: In cases of accident, breakdown or other emergencies, tank vehicles are allowed to be parked and left unattended at any location while the operator is obtaining assistance.

3811.2 Unattended parking. The unattended parking of LP-gas tank vehicle shall be in accordance with Sections 3811.2.1 and 3811.2.2.

3811.2.1 Near residential, educational and institutional occupancies and other high-risk areas. LP-gas tank vehicles shall not be left unattended at any time on residential streets or within 500 feet (152 m) ofa residential area, apartment or hotel complex, educational facility, hospital or care facility. Tank vehicles shall not be left unattended at any other place that would, in the opinion of the fire code official, pose an extreme life hazard. 3811.2.2 Durations exceeding 1 hour. LP-gas tank vehicles parked at anyone point for longer than1 hour shall be located as follows: Off public streets, highways, public avenues or public alleys. Inside of a bulk plant. At other approved locations not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from buildings other than those approved for the storage or servicing of such vehicles.

3811.2.1 Near residential, educational and institutional occupancies and other high-risk areas. LP-gas tank vehicles shall not be left unattended at any time on residential streets or within 500 feet (152 m) ofa residential area, apartment or hotel complex, educational facility, hospital or care facility. Tank vehicles shall not be left unattended at any other place that would, in the opinion of the fire code official, pose an extreme life hazard.

3811.2.2 Durations exceeding 1 hour. LP-gas tank vehicles parked at anyone point for longer than1 hour shall be located as follows:

Off public streets, highways, public avenues or public alleys.
Inside of a bulk plant.
At other approved locations not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from buildings other than those approved for the storage or servicing of such vehicles.

3811.3 Garaging. Garaging of LP-gas tank vehicles shall be as specified in NFPA 58. Vehicles with LP-gas fuel systems are allowed to be stored or serviced in garages as specified in Section 11.15 of NFPA 58.

Frequently asked questions

What standards govern the installation of LP-gas equipment?

LP-gas equipment must be installed in accordance with the International Fuel Gas Code and NFPA 58, unless this chapter specifies otherwise.

Who can dispense LP-gas?

Only a qualified attendant is permitted to dispense LP-gas.

When is fire protection required for LP-gas storage?

Fire protection is required for installations with LP-gas containers having a water capacity over 4,000 gallons (15 140 L), as per NFPA 58 Section 6.25.