San Francisco Fire Code Chapter 61 limits residential propane (LPG) cylinder storage to small portable tanks for grills and patio heaters, with strict ventilation, distance, and quantity rules to prevent fire hazards.
SF Fire Code Section 6101 and following sections restrict residential LPG cylinders to a maximum aggregate of 25 gallons (about two 20-pound BBQ tanks plus reserves). Cylinders must be stored outdoors or in well-ventilated detached structures, never inside dwellings, basements, or garages. Tanks must sit at least five feet from doors, windows, and air intakes. Multi-unit buildings must consolidate storage in approved enclosures and may require SFFD permits above 60 pounds aggregate. Exchange stations and commercial filling require Type S permits from SFFD Fire Prevention. The 2019 high-rise patio explosion incidents drove tighter enforcement.
Indoor propane storage, exceeding the 25-gallon residential limit, blocking ventilation, or storing tanks near windows triggers SFFD red-tag and removal orders.
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