Propane Storage: Los Angeles vs New York
How do propane storage rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and New York, NY?
Los Angeles has fewer restrictions than New York.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles Fire Code §61 and §6101.6 limit residential outdoor propane storage to cylinders aggregating ten gallons (about 42 pounds) without a permit, require LAFD permits above 25 gallons, and prohibit indoor storage of cylinders larger than one pound.
View full Los Angeles 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 | Los Angeles | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Residential exempt cap | Ten gallons aggregate outdoor | - |
| Permit threshold | Above 25 gallons aggregate | - |
| Indoor storage limit | One pound cylinder maximum | - |
| Setback from openings | Five feet minimum | - |
| Standard reference | LAFC §6101.6, NFPA 58 | - |
| Code | - | Fire Code Chapter 61 |
| 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.
Los Angeles FAQ
How many BBQ propane tanks can I keep at home in LA?
Up to two standard 20-pound cylinders, totalling roughly ten gallons, may be stored outdoors at a single-family home without an LAFD permit, provided they sit at least five feet from doors and windows.
Can I store a propane cylinder in my garage?
No. LAFC §6101.6 prohibits indoor storage of LP-gas cylinders larger than one pound, including attached garages. Cylinders must be kept outside in a ventilated, upright position with cylinder valve closed.
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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