Sonora, CA Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)

Tuolumne County has not been found to publish a standalone countywide propane-storage ordinance for unincorporated areas; storage and use are governed by the California Fire Code (Title 24, Part 9, adopted statewide) and state LP-gas regulations, enforced locally by CAL FIRE / Tuolumne County Fire. Under California Fire Code Section 308.1.4, charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices, and LP-gas cooking devices with a container larger than a nominal 1-pound (2.5-pound water capacity) cylinder, may not be operated or stored on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction, except for one- and two-family dwellings or where the structure is protected by an automatic sprinkler system. Small camping-style cylinders (nominal 1 pound) are the exception that may be used near combustible construction. For larger residential supply tanks, the Fire Code and NFPA 58 (the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code, referenced by California) set separation distances from buildings, property lines, and ignition sources based on tank water capacity, along with requirements for stable bases, protection from vehicle impact, and clearance from combustible vegetation - especially important in this very-high-fire-hazard county. Defensible space duties under PRC 4291 and Tuolumne County Chapter 8.14 effectively require keeping flammable vegetation clear around tanks. Because exact tank clearances depend on tank size and installation, confirm specifics with Tuolumne County Fire Prevention (209-533-5502) and your propane supplier before installing or relocating a tank.