Buffalo, NY Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)

City Code Chapter 266 sets Buffalo's propane and LP-gas rules. Under § 266-3, anyone installing a container (or interconnected containers) exceeding 2,000 gallons' water capacity, or storing more than 300 pounds of liquefied petroleum gas (about 2,550 cubic feet in vapor form) on the premises, must obtain a license from the Director of Licenses, subject to Bureau of Fire Prevention approval; the license expires December 31 and renews annually, with the fee set in Chapter 175. Separately, a permit from the Bureau of Fire Prevention is required for any storage, handling or other use of LP gas.

The Code exempts storage, handling or use inside buildings not open to the public where the aggregate quantity is 40 pounds or less, and it exempts facilities that already hold the § 266-3 license. Every license or permit must be conspicuously displayed at the place of use, storage or handling under § 266-2. Section 266-4 requires storage locations to carry approved portable fire extinguishers and water-spray fixed systems as the Bureau of Fire Prevention directs. Section 266-5 layers on use rules: undiluted liquid-phase LP gas cannot be piped through buildings housing families, roomers, lodgers or boarders; vaporization by open flame or open electrical coil is barred; multi-container systems must allow container swaps without cutting gas flow; every system needs pressure-relief safety devices with a safe discharge point and at least one visible, outdoor shutoff valve kept in good working order; and LP gas systems are barred from heating or cooking use wherever public utility gas is available and accessible.

Delivery is also restricted under § 266-1, which bars dealers from delivering LP gas to any recipient lacking the required permit or license, and bars tank vehicles from discharging into portable containers except in a fire-department-authorized emergency.