Propane Storage: Los Angeles vs San Diego
How do propane storage rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA?
Los Angeles and San Diego have similar restriction levels.
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 →San Diego, CA
San Diego County
San Diego Fire Code SDMC Chapter 55 adopts International Fire Code §6101 governing LP-gas storage. Residential propane tanks are limited to two pounds inside a home and larger cylinders need permits, ventilation, and protective barriers.
View full San Diego rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Residential exempt cap | Ten gallons aggregate outdoor | - |
| Permit threshold | Above 25 gallons aggregate | Above 125 gallons aggregate |
| Indoor storage limit | One pound cylinder maximum | - |
| Setback from openings | Five feet minimum | - |
| Standard reference | LAFC §6101.6, NFPA 58 | - |
| Local code | - | SDMC §55 Fire Code |
| Model code | - | IFC §6101 LP-Gas |
| Indoor limit | - | 1 pound per unit |
| Outdoor residential | - | Up to 20 pounds |
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.
San Diego FAQ
Can I store a 20-pound BBQ tank on my apartment balcony?
Generally no. IFC §6109 and most apartment leases prohibit cylinders larger than one pound on balconies of multi-family dwellings. Use an alternative cooking appliance or store the tank at a permitted ground-level location.
Do I need a permit for my home propane grill tank?
No permit is needed for a single 20-pound exchange cylinder for residential cooking when stored outdoors away from ignition sources. Larger tanks, multiple cylinders, or commercial refilling require SDFD permits.
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