Propane Storage: Cape Coral vs Fort Myers
How do propane storage rules compare between Cape Coral, FL and Fort Myers, FL?
Cape Coral and Fort Myers have similar restriction levels.
Cape Coral, FL
Lee County
Lee County does not set its own residential propane-storage limits. Home LP-gas storage follows the Florida Fire Prevention Code, which adopts NFPA 58, and Florida's LP Gas program under the Department of Agriculture. Typical small grill and portable cylinders need no permit.
View full Cape Coral rules →Fort Myers, FL
Lee County
Propane / LP-gas storage in Fort Myers is regulated by the Florida Fire Prevention Code (8th Edition) Chapter 69 incorporating NFPA 58 (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code), and by Florida Statute Chapter 527 (Sale of Liquefied Petroleum Gas). The Fort Myers Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau enforces under Chapter 40 of the City Code. Florida law (FS § 718.113(7) and FFPC amendments enacted in 2018) permits LP-gas grills on condominium and multifamily balconies under specified conditions, modifying the prior NFPA 1 ban. Bulk LP-gas installations, dispensing, and commercial sales require licensure by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Bureau of LP Gas Inspection under FS Chapter 527 and a Fort Myers Fire Department permit.
View full Fort Myers rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cape Coral | Fort Myers |
|---|---|---|
| County-specific rule | None (state code governs) | - |
| Standard | NFPA 58 via FL Fire Code | - |
| Grill cylinders | No permit for home use | - |
| Large tanks | Licensed installer + permit | - |
| Licensing agency | FDACS LP Gas program | - |
| Code Cite | - | FFPC 8th Ed. (NFPA 1 Ch. 69 + NFPA 58) via Fort Myers Ch. 40 |
| Condo Balcony Grills | - | Permitted by FS § 718.113(7) (Ch. 2018-96) |
| State Licensure | - | FS Ch. 527 (FDACS Bureau of LP Gas Inspection) |
| 20-lb Tanks | - | Outdoor upright storage only; no indoor |
| Commercial Install | - | Fort Myers Fire Department permit required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cape Coral FAQ
Can I store propane grill tanks at my Lee County home?
Yes. Consumer-size grill and portable cylinders are fine for household use; there is no county storage permit for them. Store them outdoors, upright, away from ignition sources.
Do I need a permit for a large propane tank?
Yes. Stationary tanks require installation by a state-licensed LP-gas dealer, must meet NFPA 58 setbacks, and are permitted through the Lee County building department.
Fort Myers FAQ
Can I have a propane grill on my Fort Myers condo balcony?
Yes. Florida Statute 718.113(7), as amended by Chapter 2018-96, Laws of Florida, permits propane-fueled cooking appliances on the balcony of a condominium unit notwithstanding restrictions in the Florida Fire Prevention Code, provided the association's governing documents do not prohibit it. Non-cooking devices such as LP-gas patio heaters and fire pits remain subject to the FFPC.
Where can I store a 20-lb propane tank at my Fort Myers home?
Under NFPA 58 incorporated into the Florida Fire Prevention Code, LP-gas cylinders larger than 1 lb capacity must be stored upright outdoors in a well-ventilated location away from heat sources and ignition. They may not be stored inside a residence or in an enclosed garage.
Do I need a permit to install a permanent propane tank at my Fort Myers home?
Yes. Installation of a permanent LP-gas tank, regulator, and gas piping requires a Fort Myers Fire Department permit and plan review under the Florida Fire Prevention Code (Fort Myers Code Chapter 40), as well as licensure of the installer by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Bureau of LP Gas Inspection under FS Chapter 527.
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