Maricopa, AZ Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)

The City of Maricopa regulates propane (LP-gas) through the International Fire Code it adopts under City Code Section 15.05.120 (2024 edition). IFC Chapter 61 governs liquefied petroleum gases and references NFPA 58 for detailed residential storage and handling. Key provisions: combustible materials - weeds, grass, brush, trash - must be kept at least 10 feet from LP-gas tanks or containers (IFC Section 6107.3); and the separation of containers from buildings depends on water capacity, with aboveground containers under 125 gallons permitted as close as 5 feet from a building per Table 6104.3. For grills and small appliances, smaller cylinders are used and must be handled per manufacturer instructions. The code also restricts where larger propane cylinders may be kept around multifamily buildings: under IFC Section 308, LP-gas cooking devices with a container water capacity greater than 2.5 pounds (a nominal 1-pound capacity) may not be operated or stored on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction - so a standard 20-pound grill cylinder is restricted on apartment balconies, though one- and two-family dwellings and sprinklered buildings are excepted. Store cylinders upright, outdoors, in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources and ignition, and never inside a home or enclosed garage. Confirm specific tank-permitting requirements with the Maricopa Fire/Medical Department for larger installations.