Propane Storage: Los Angeles vs South Gate
How do propane storage rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and South Gate, CA?
Los Angeles and South Gate 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 →South Gate, CA
Los Angeles County
Propane (LP-gas) storage in South Gate is governed by California Fire Code Chapter 61 (Liquefied Petroleum Gases), adopted via South Gate Municipal Code Title 9. Residential propane cylinders ≤ 5 gallons (~20 lb) are exempt from permit, but larger tanks require fire code permits, setback compliance, and NFPA 58 listed installation.
View full South Gate rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | South Gate |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Residential exempt cylinder | - | ≤ 1 lb propane (CFC §6103) |
| Residential aggregate limit (no permit) | - | ~125 gallons (CFC §6104) |
| Minimum setback (125 gal residential) | - | 5 ft from openings (CFC §6104) |
| Indoor storage in dwellings | - | Prohibited (CFC §6109.13) |
| Operational permit threshold | - | >125 gal aggregate (CFC §105.5.30) |
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.
South Gate FAQ
Can I store propane tanks for my BBQ in the garage?
California Fire Code §6109.13 prohibits storage of LP-gas cylinders inside occupied portions of one- and two-family dwellings, including attached garages. Store BBQ propane tanks outdoors, on a hard, well-drained surface, away from ignition sources, and never in a basement or below-grade space.
How many BBQ propane tanks can I have?
California Fire Code §6103 exempts containers up to roughly 1 lb propane (cylinders ≤ 2.5 lb water capacity). Standard 20-lb BBQ cylinders count toward aggregate residential limits. Two spare cylinders (40-60 lb total) outdoors at a single-family home is well within the ~125 gal residential allowance.
Do I need a permit for a 500-gallon tank for an ADU or pool heater?
Yes. California Fire Code §105.5.30 requires an operational permit for LP-gas storage exceeding 125 gallons aggregate. Installation must comply with NFPA 58 setbacks (10 ft for 126-500 gal). Contact the South Gate Building Department for fire code review and a plumbing/mechanical permit.
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