Des Moines follows the Iowa-adopted International Fire Code under Chapter 8, capping residential propane cylinder size and quantity, requiring outdoor storage with setbacks from buildings, ignition sources, and property lines.
Des Moines enforces the International Fire Code (IFC) as adopted by Iowa under Municipal Code Chapter 8 for propane (LP-gas) storage. Residential occupancies are limited in the aggregate water capacity of cylinders kept on site, and tanks larger than the residential threshold require special permits and engineered placement. Cylinders must be stored outdoors, upright, in well-ventilated areas, away from doors, windows, basement openings, and ignition sources, with required setbacks from property lines and combustible structures. Storage inside dwellings, attached garages serving sleeping rooms, or below-grade spaces is prohibited. The Des Moines Fire Department inspects and enforces violations.
Storing oversized tanks indoors, exceeding cylinder limits, blocking egress with tanks, or placing propane near ignition sources can trigger DSMFD orders to abate, fines, and removal at owner expense.
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