Fort Myers, FL Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)

Three sources govern propane in Fort Myers. (1) The Florida Fire Prevention Code (FFPC), 8th Edition (2023) - effective December 31, 2023 - incorporates NFPA 1, 2021 Chapter 69 and NFPA 58 (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code), which set container size, separation distance, dispensing, refilling, and storage standards. NFPA 1 generally prohibits storage of LP-gas containers exceeding 1 lb (0.45 kg) capacity inside any residential building or in any place of public assembly. (2) Florida-specific amendments and statute: FS § 718.113(7) (the 2018 'barbecue grill' amendment, Ch. 2018-96, Laws of Florida) permits propane gas fueled cooking appliances on the balcony of a condominium unit notwithstanding NFPA 1 restrictions, provided that the cooking appliance is not used or stored in a manner that the association's documents prohibit. The Florida Condominium Act preempts the broader NFPA 1 ban on multifamily-balcony LP-gas devices for cooking appliances; LP-gas heaters, fire pits, and other non-cooking devices on balconies remain subject to FFPC restrictions. (3) FS Chapter 527 (Sale of Liquefied Petroleum Gas), administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Bureau of LP Gas Inspection, requires licensure for dispensing, selling, installing, or transporting LP-gas; commercial LP-gas installations in Fort Myers also require a Fort Myers Fire Department permit and plan review under the FFPC. Residential LP-gas tanks must be stored upright outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources and ignition; 20-lb cylinders may not be stored indoors. Larger tank installations (typically 125 gallons or more) require setbacks per NFPA 58 Table 6.4.1.1 (commonly 10 feet from a building, property line, or source of ignition for 125-500 gallon containers; greater for larger). Permit-issued installations are inspected by the Fort Myers Fire Prevention Bureau (239-321-7350).