Wilmington, DE Fire Regulations: Propane Storage (2026)
Key Facts
- Exempt cylinder size
- under 125 water gallons
- Above that
- chief of fire approval required
- Enforcing office
- Division of Fire Prevention
- Related permit fee
- $100 tank installation (per fee schedule)
Summary
Wilmington bans propane and LP-gas storage citywide except for cylinders under 125 water-gallon capacity, or with fire marshal approval.
Propane or LPG shall be prohibited unless specifically approved by the chief of fire or fire marshal, except for cylinders of less than 125 water gallons capacity.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 72).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 12-92 flatly prohibits propane or LPG storage in Wilmington unless the chief of fire or fire marshal specifically approves it, carving out only cylinders under 125 water gallons capacity. That threshold covers ordinary household tanks like grill-size 20-lb cylinders and typical backyard tanks used for pool heaters or generators, but anything larger, including many bulk residential or commercial tanks, needs sign-off from the fire department before it can sit on the property.
Violations & Fines
Storing propane or LPG above the 125-water-gallon exemption without fire marshal approval violates § 12-92; the fire prevention division can also require a hazardous/flammable materials permit under § 12-99 and inspect the installation before approving it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a propane tank at my Wilmington home?
What if my tank is larger than 125 water gallons?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Wilmington
Compare Wilmington to another location·View the Delaware fire regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.