Propane Storage: Chino vs Fontana
How do propane storage rules compare between Chino, CA and Fontana, CA?
Chino has fewer restrictions than Fontana.
Chino, CA
San Bernardino County
Propane (LPG) storage in Chino is regulated by the California Fire Code Chapter 61 (Liquefied Petroleum Gases) as adopted by CVFD Ordinance 2022-01, plus NFPA 58. Cylinders ≤2.5 lb water capacity may be stored anywhere; 1–4 cylinders ≤20 lb (BBQ-size) are permitted at residences but must be kept outdoors away from ignition sources; aggregate residential storage >720 lb (about 175 gallons) requires CFC §105.6.20 permit. Permanent tanks (e.g., 250–500 gallon ASME tanks) have minimum setbacks of 10 ft from any building or property line.
View full Chino rules →Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County Fire Protection District enforces California Fire Code propane storage limits, with stricter setbacks in the San Bernardino Mountains and high-fire WUI zones around Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, Crestline, and the Cajon Pass corridor.
View full Fontana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chino | Fontana |
|---|---|---|
| Code authority | California Fire Code Chapter 61 + NFPA 58 (adopted via CVFD Ord. 2022-01) | - |
| BBQ-size cylinders | ≤20-lb DOT cylinders allowed; store outdoors, upright, away from heat | - |
| Indoor storage | Prohibited in dwelling units, basements, or below-grade rooms | - |
| Permit threshold | Operational permit required >500 lb aggregate (CFC §105.6.20) | Above 125 gallons |
| Tank ≤125 gal | ≥10 ft from buildings & property lines (NFPA 58 §6.4.1) | - |
| Tank 125–500 gal | 10 ft buildings / 10 ft property line | - |
| Tank 501–2,000 gal | 25 ft buildings / 25 ft property line | - |
| Code basis | - | California Fire Code 61 |
| Pad | - | Noncombustible required |
| Strapping | - | Seismic in mountains |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chino FAQ
Can I keep multiple BBQ propane tanks in my garage?
Only with caution. CFC Chapter 61 and NFPA 58 prohibit LPG storage inside dwelling units. An attached residential garage is treated as part of the dwelling for storage purposes — store cylinders outdoors in a well-ventilated location, upright, away from ignition sources. Aggregate residential storage above 500 lb (about 120 gal) triggers an operational permit from CVFD.
Do I need a permit for a 500-gallon propane tank for my house?
Yes. A fixed ASME tank install requires a CVFD operational permit under CFC §105.6.20 and a City of Chino Building Division plumbing/mechanical permit for tank set, piping, and appliance connection. The tank must sit at least 10 ft from any building and 10 ft from any property line (NFPA 58 §6.4.1).
Where can I refill or exchange my BBQ propane tank in Chino?
Only at retailers using California-State-Fire-Marshal- and CVFD-approved LPG dispensing or exchange equipment under CFC §6105. Big-box stores, hardware stores, and gas stations that display the exchange-cage permit qualify. Transport cylinders upright, secured, and never inside a passenger compartment with windows up.
Fontana FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 100-gallon tank?
Most residential tanks at or below 125 gallons do not require a permit, but defensible-space setbacks still apply. Confirm with SBCFPD before installing.
Can I store extra tanks in my garage?
No. Indoor storage of LP gas is restricted under the Fire Code. Tanks must be outside on a noncombustible pad with required clearances and ventilation.
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