Imperial County, CA Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)
Key Facts
- Default capacity cap
- 2,000 gallons aggregate
- Exception authority
- Fire chief, case-by-case
- Bulk storage zoning
- Restricted in all zones but M-2
- Max penalty
- $1,500 fine / 120 days jail
Summary
In unincorporated Imperial County, the aggregate water capacity of any single liquefied-petroleum-gas storage installation is capped at 2,000 gallons under the county's Fire Code amendments, unless the fire chief approves a different limit.
3804.2 Maximum capacity within established limits. Within the geographic limits of the unincorporated portions of the county of Imperial, the aggregate capacity of any one installation shall not exceed a water capacity of 2,000 gallons (7,570 L). "Exception: In particular installations, this capacity limit shall be determined by the fire code official, after consideration of special features such as topographical conditions, nature of occupancy, and proximity to buildings, capacity of proposed containers, degree of fire protection to be provided and capabilities of the local fire department."
D.The board of supervisors hereby repeals any portion of this chapter 8.20 in conflict herewith. (Ord. No. 1592, §§ 1, 2, 4-23-24)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 62 - 9-25).
Full Breakdown
Imperial County's 2019 California Fire Code adoption amends CFC §3804.2 so that, within the unincorporated area, no single LP-gas installation's aggregate water capacity may exceed 2,000 gallons (7,570 L). The fire code official can set a different capacity limit for a particular installation after weighing factors such as topography, occupancy, proximity to buildings, container capacity, fire protection provided, and local fire department capability. Bulk storage of LP-gas is separately restricted by land-use zone under §8.20.040, and is barred in the zones where Class I and II flammable-liquid storage is prohibited. Violations of the fire code are enforced under §8.20.070.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the 2,000-gallon aggregate LP-gas capacity limit, or storing bulk LP-gas in a restricted zone, is a fire-code violation punishable as a misdemeanor: up to $1,500 in fines or 120 days in county jail, per §8.20.070.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much propane can I store on my property in unincorporated Imperial County?
Can I set up a bulk propane storage facility anywhere in the county?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Imperial County
California rules heatmap·Compare Imperial County to another location·View the California fire regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.