Dearborn, MI Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Zoning Ordinance § 8.02.F.4
- Residential limit
- 80 lbs. or less
- Approval needed
- Fire Chief
- Over 80 lbs.
- Industrial 'A' district only
- Heating tanks
- Exempt from 150-ft setback
Summary
Dearborn's Zoning Ordinance caps everyday propane storage at 80 pounds as a permitted accessory use in every zoning district, including residential; anything larger is restricted to an Industrial 'A' district with Fire Chief approval.
4. Liquefied petroleum gas. The storage or utilization of liquefied petroleum gas shall be permitted subject to approval by the Fire Chief and the following restrictions: Storage, utilization of 80 lbs. or less: Permitted accessory use in all districts. Storage, utilization of more than 80 lbs.: Permitted in industrial "A" district.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-07: Code: Updated through: July 22, 2026 | Zoning: Updated through: July 22, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Section 8.02.F.4 of the Dearborn Zoning Ordinance (Wayne County, Michigan), part of Article 8.00's performance standards for fire and safety hazards, permits storage or utilization of liquefied petroleum gas up to 80 pounds as an accessory use in every zoning district, houses included, subject to Fire Chief approval. Storage above 80 pounds is only permitted in an Industrial 'A' district, so the Ordinance doesn't authorize larger residential tanks. The same subsection exempts approved tanks that supply fuel for heating a dwelling or other on-site building from the 150-foot storage-tank setback that otherwise applies to flammable or combustible liquids and gases.
Violations & Fines
Storing more than 80 pounds of LP gas outside an Industrial 'A' district violates the performance standards; the City can require removal of the excess quantity under the compliance procedures in Zoning Ordinance Section 8.03.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much propane can I store at my Dearborn home?
Can I keep a large propane tank at my house?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dearborn
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Propane Storage in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Wayne County handle propane storage.