Wicomico County, MD Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)

Section 144-6 of the Wicomico County Fire Prevention Code prohibits the above-ground storage of compressed gases, explosives, ammunition, blasting agents, flammable and combustible liquids, hazardous chemicals, liquefied petroleum gases and magnesium within the fire zone limits established by the County, except as otherwise permitted elsewhere in the chapter. The county incorporates the State of Maryland Fire Prevention Code originally adopted in 1964 and all of its amendments, plus National Fire Protection Association standards and NFPA Standard No. 304-L governing petroleum wharves, as controlling within Wicomico County to the extent they are not modified locally (§ 144-7).

Anyone seeking a permit for propane storage or handling covered by Chapter 144 applies on forms supplied by the Fire Marshal and pays a $5 fee per permit, which the Fire Marshal must account for monthly and remit to the Director of Finance (§ 144-8). The Fire Marshal, appointed under § 144-3 by the County Executive, enforces storage and use rules for explosives and flammables (§ 144-4A(2)) and may enter and inspect any building or premises except occupied private dwellings during reasonable hours to check compliance (§ 144-5A).

Where strict compliance creates practical difficulties, the Fire Marshal can modify a provision in writing if the applicant shows the spirit of the code is still observed and public safety is preserved (§ 144-10).