How far must a propane tank be from my house in North Dakota?

Setbacks follow NFPA 58 as adopted by the State Fire Marshal. Tanks under 125 gallons typically require at least 5 feet from buildings; larger tanks need 10 feet or more depending on capacity.

Who licenses propane dealers in North Dakota?

The North Dakota Public Service Commission licenses LP gas dealers and inspectors under NDCC 49-23.1. Cities cannot issue their own dealer licenses or set conflicting requirements.

North Dakota Propane Storage (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: NDCC 18-01.1, 49-23.1
Standard: NFPA 58 adopted
Dealer licensing: Public Service Commission
Code enforcement: State Fire Marshal
Local override: Not permitted

Source: North Dakota Legislative Branch

Full Breakdown

NDCC 18-01.1 directs the State Fire Marshal to adopt and enforce the State Fire Code, which incorporates NFPA 58 and the International Fire Code provisions on liquefied petroleum gas. These rules govern container siting distances from buildings and property lines, dispenser construction, transportation, and operator certification. The Public Service Commission separately licenses LP gas dealers and inspectors under NDCC 49-23.1. Cities may enforce the state code but cannot waive minimum clearances or substitute weaker standards. Residential tanks under 125 gallons water capacity have specific setback requirements that apply uniformly.

Violations & Penalties

Operating without a PSC license, improper tank installation, or violating fire code clearances is a Class B misdemeanor and may result in license revocation and red-tagged equipment.

North Dakota Propane and LP Gas Storage Code

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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