Installer certification
Propane installation requires a licensed propane technician in every US state. Look for installers carrying:
- State propane installer license (issued by state fire marshal or LP gas board)
- CETP (Certified Employee Training Program) — the industry standard certification administered by PERC through state propane associations
- NPGA membership — National Propane Gas Association affiliation
- Insurance and bonding appropriate to propane installation work
Pre-installation safety
Before any work begins, the installer should verify:
- NFPA 58 setback compliance for the planned tank location
- Permit issuance (or be prepared to handle permitting on your behalf)
- Underground utility locates (call 811 before digging)
- Soil and groundwater conditions for underground installations
During installation
- Pressure testing of all new piping above operating pressure
- Leak verification at every joint, fitting and connection
- Tracer wire installed above buried PE service lines for future locator use
- Vehicle impact protection (bollards, curbs) where the tank is exposed to driveway traffic
- Documentation of all pressure-test readings and installation details
Post-installation inspection
Required by code in nearly every US jurisdiction. The inspector confirms:
- Tank, fittings and regulator installed per NFPA 58
- Setback distances correct
- Pressure test results documented
- Piping sizes appropriate to appliance loads (NFPA 54)
- Appliance connections and shut-off valves correctly placed
FAQ
Can a non-licensed installer do propane work?
No. Every US state requires a licensed propane technician for installation and any modification of propane systems. Unlicensed installations are uninsurable and may force costly remediation later.
How can I verify my installer is qualified?
Request the installer's state license number and verify with your state's licensing authority (usually the fire marshal or LP gas board). Confirm CETP certification through the state propane association.