LA County Fire Code Title 32 §6101 caps propane patio heaters at one 20-pound cylinder per heater on commercial patios with 10-foot clearance from buildings. CARB regulates outdoor heater emissions, and SCAQMD natural-gas heater rules apply across the LA basin.
Restaurants and event venues using propane patio heaters in unincorporated LA County operate under Title 32 §6101 et seq. Each portable heater is limited to a single DOT-approved 20-pound (5-gallon) cylinder, with 10-foot setbacks from combustible walls, awnings, and tents. Aggregate cylinder storage above 10 gallons triggers LACoFD permit and §6104 setbacks. Natural-gas fixed heaters require gas-permit inspection and South Coast AQMD compliance. CARB regulates new patio-heater emissions sold in California. Heaters cannot be used within tents or under solid covered awnings without engineered ventilation. Seasonal use is common October through April, when LA basin nights drop below 55°F and patio dining demand rises.
Operating without proper clearances or storing excess propane on-site triggers LACoFD red-tag, fines up to $500 per violation, and immediate cylinder confiscation. Repeat violations risk business-permit suspension. Use inside fully enclosed tents creates immediate stop-use orders.
See how El Monte's outdoor heater rules rules stack up against other locations.
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