Propane Storage: Boston vs New York
How do propane storage rules compare between Boston, MA and New York, NY?
Boston and New York have similar restriction levels.
Boston, MA
Suffolk County
Storage of liquefied petroleum gas in Boston is regulated under 527 CMR 1.00 (Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code) and Boston Code Ch. 11-2.1, with BFD permits required for tanks above household quantities.
View full Boston rules →New York, NY
New York County
NYC Fire Code Chapter 61, codified at Title 29 of the Administrative Code and adopting IFC Chapter 61, limits propane container size and quantity in the five boroughs and requires FDNY permits, with most rooftops and Manhattan streets effectively off-limits.
View full New York rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boston | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Code | 527 CMR 1.00 + NFPA 58 | Fire Code Chapter 61 |
| Statute | MGL Ch. 148 §13 | - |
| Permit issuer | Boston Fire Department | - |
| Apartment balconies | 1 lb cylinders only | - |
| Home limit | - | Two 20 lb cylinders |
| Permit | - | FDNY Certificate of Fitness |
| Roof storage | - | Prohibited |
| Outdoor heaters | - | 20 lb cylinders only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boston FAQ
Can I keep a propane grill on my Boston balcony?
No. Boston Fire Code prohibits LP-gas grills and cylinders larger than one pound on balconies or within ten feet of any combustible multi-family building.
How do I get a BFD propane storage permit?
Apply through the Boston Fire Prevention Division with a site plan, NFPA 58 compliance details, and the licensing-authority approval required by MGL Ch. 148 §13.
New York FAQ
Can I keep a 100-pound propane tank in my Brooklyn backyard?
Generally no. FC section 6104 caps residential propane at two 20-pound cylinders without a permit. Larger tanks require an FDNY permit, professional installation, and code-compliant clearances rarely available on small NYC lots.
What about propane heaters on a sidewalk cafe?
Outdoor dining heaters need a Department of Transportation revocable consent plus FDNY rule 3 RCNY 6109-01 compliance: 20-pound cylinders only, attached connections, and a Certificate of Fitness holder on site whenever the heater is operating.
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