Orange County Fire Authority limits residential propane storage based on container size, requires setbacks from buildings and ignition sources, and bans storing more than the threshold without a permit under the California Fire Code.
OCFA enforces the California Fire Code as adopted countywide and supplemented locally. Residential properties may store small DOT cylinders such as twenty-pound barbecue tanks indoors only under strict limits, but larger ASME tanks must be installed outdoors with documented setbacks from buildings, property lines, and ignition sources—typically ten feet for tanks up to one hundred twenty-five gallons. Tanks larger than one hundred twenty-five gallons require a propane installation permit through OCFA or city fire marshal. Refilling cylinders at retail must occur at certified stations only. Storage of more than two cylinders inside a residence is generally prohibited.
Improperly stored or installed tanks can be red-tagged for immediate correction and bring fines of two hundred fifty to one thousand dollars per occurrence.
See how other cities in Orange County handle propane storage.
See how Costa Mesa's propane storage rules stack up against other locations.
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