Merced County, CA Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)

Liquefied petroleum gas (propane) storage and use in unincorporated Merced County is regulated through the state fire code adopted by the county. Merced County Code Section 9.24.010 adopts the 2022 California Fire Code (with Appendix D of the 2021 International Fire Code), whose Chapter 61 governs LP-gas. Under the Fire Code, the location, separation distances, and capacity of propane containers are regulated based on tank size: small portable cylinders used for barbecues and similar appliances are generally allowed without a permit, while larger aggregate quantities and permanently installed tanks trigger permit requirements, minimum distances from buildings and property lines, and protection from vehicle impact and ignition sources. A permit from the county fire authority is required to install or operate stationary LP-gas systems above the Fire Code threshold and to store quantities exceeding the code's limits. Installations must also comply with NFPA 58 (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code), which the California Fire Code references. Merced County does not appear to publish a separate propane ordinance, so these state-code provisions are the operative rules. Property owners with larger agricultural or residential tanks should confirm clearances and permit needs with the Merced County Fire Department, and suppliers typically handle permitting and setback compliance when a tank is installed.