Bellflower, CA Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)

Propane (liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG) storage in Bellflower is governed by the California Fire Code, adopted via Municipal Code Chapter 15.40 and enforced by LA County Fire; the city does not add a separate propane ordinance. Under the Fire Code, no permit is required to use one LP-gas-fueled cooking appliance per residential building or to store one additional cylinder with an aggregate water capacity of about 20 pounds (a standard 'barbecue' cylinder) outside the building. Larger quantities or commercial storage trigger permit and clearance requirements. The Fire Code also restricts where containers may be kept: LP-gas containers larger than the 1-pound (nominal) class generally may not be stored or used on combustible balconies or inside dwellings. For balcony and patio use, an LP-gas burner with a container water capacity greater than 2.5 pounds (about a 1-pound LP-gas capacity) may not be used on a combustible balcony or within 10 feet of combustible construction, while small camping-style cylinders (2.5-pound water capacity or less) may be used. Practically, this means a homeowner can keep a barbecue and one spare 20-pound tank outdoors at ground level, but should not store the large tank indoors, in an enclosed garage living space, or on a wood balcony. Cylinders should be kept upright, outdoors, away from heat sources and exits.