Nashua, NH Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)

New Hampshire's State Fire Code, adopted under RSA 153:5 and updated effective August 13, 2024 to NFPA 1 (Uniform Fire Code), 2021 edition, and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code), 2021 edition, governs propane / LP-gas storage in Nashua. NFPA 1 Chapter 69 (Liquefied Petroleum Gases) references NFPA 58 (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code) as the implementing standard for LP-gas container storage, dispensing, transportation, and use. NFPA 58 sets capacity, separation, and ventilation rules: in buildings frequented by the public, cylinders are limited to a propane capacity of 1 pound and a total quantity of 200 pounds of propane stored; cylinders must be at least 5 feet from any building opening if the building has two exit ways, or at least 10 feet if there is only one exit way; cylinders must be stored upright in well-ventilated outdoor locations away from heat and ignition sources. NFPA 1 separately restricts open-flame cooking devices and the storage of fuel cylinders on combustible balconies and within close proximity of combustible construction in multi-family R-2 occupancies (typical thresholds: prohibited unless the building is fully sprinklered, the dwelling is a one- or two-family detached dwelling, or the LP-gas container is 1 pound nominal capacity or smaller), enforced by the Nashua Fire Marshal under City Code Chapter 156 (Fire Prevention). Nashua City Code Chapter 156, originally adopted by reference of a prior NFPA 1 edition, now defaults to the currently adopted State Fire Code. Bulk LP-gas plants, dispensing operations, and commercial cylinder-exchange installations require operational permits from the Nashua Fire Marshal's Office and follow NFPA 58 separation, overfill-protection, and emergency-shutoff rules. Residential 20-lb grill cylinders at one- and two-family homes are allowed without an operational permit when used per manufacturer instructions and stored outdoors.