Howard County, MD Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)

Howard County has no separate propane ordinance; LP-gas storage and use are governed by the International Fire Code, which the county adopts under Title 17, Section 104 of its Fire Prevention Code. That code limits the size and placement of LP-gas containers, particularly on and near multifamily buildings. The county's own fire-safety guidance applies the placement rule directly to propane appliances: gas-fired grills and similar fuel-burning devices may not be used or kindled on a balcony, under an overhang, or within 15 feet of any building or structure. Only electric grills with no alternative fuel may be approved for balcony use. Check with the Office of the Fire Marshal (410-313-6040) for larger tank installations.