Safety precautions require propane tanks to follow strict rules and guidelines that are set at federal and state level. At federal level, propane tank requirements are established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (US Department of Labor) in its “Storage and handling of liquefied petroleum gases” standards (1910.110). Regulations concern tank and component testing, tank location, nameplate marking, tank repair and modification, and tank and component performance standards.

 

Propane tank requirements can seem complicated but they exist for your safety and to protect your property. Propane industry professionals are trained to know them and take them into account when installing, setting up and connecting your propane tank. Therefore, when having a propane tank delivered and installed on your property it is recommended that you rely on qualified service technicians from the propane company you have selected to ensure all standards, regulations and guidelines are respected. This is why it is important to enquire as to each company’s employee training program and safety record when requesting and comparing quotes from different propane dealers.

Propane tank location requirements

 

OSHA indicates how far a propane tank may be from buildings and other tanks (see table below). It specifies that weeds, dry grass and other materials that may ignite should be at least 10 feet away from LP gas tanks. However, local requirements may be stricter and it is recommended that you check with your local building department. Additionally, tanks are not allowed to be stacked one on top of the other.

 

Tank capacity (gallons)	Minimum distance (feet)
	From tank to building		Between tanks
	Underground	Aboveground
Under 125	10	0	0
125-250	10	10	0
251-500	10	10	3
501-2,000	25	25	3

Minimum distance requirements between tanks and between tanks and nearby buildings

Source: Table H23, Standard 1910.110, OSHA

Propane tank identification requirements (Nameplate marks)

 

OSHA requires propane tanks to indicate the name and address of the container suppliers, how many gallons it can hold, tank pressure, fill level, what the outside surface is in square feet and if it is an aboveground or underground tank. This information must appear on a plate attached to the propane tank. Markings must be done by the National Board of Boiler and Vessel Inspectors.

Propane tank installation and maintenance requirements

 

Propane tanks require permits ($25-50 on average). Obtaining a permit requires having the local building or fire department examine your tank: they will need drawings of the propane tank location. The location will be added to local records for future reference (in case there is a fire on your property). Sometimes another permit is required for the gas line that carries propane between the tank and your home (if there are utility lines in the area, for example).

 

OSHA also regulates repairs on LP gas containers. Manufacturers take these regulations into account in the guidelines, which should be followed exactly when having a tank repaired or modified.