How Far Does a 500-Gallon Propane Tank Need to Be from House

Propane tank placement regulations for houses

• Minimum distance requirement: When considering how far a 500-gallon propane tank needs to be from a house, the answer is at least 10 feet away from any building or property line
• Regulatory body: These 500-gallon propane tank distance from home regulations are established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), specifically in the NFPA 58 code that addresses all aspects of propane safety
• Purpose of regulations: The minimum distances for propane tank placement near houses are set to reduce the risk of fire in the rare case of a leak and to prevent propane exhaust from escaping into building interiors
• Driveway considerations: When determining how far a 500-gallon propane tank should be from a house, note that tanks receiving refill deliveries must be at least 5 feet from the driveway

Additional safety considerations for propane tank placement near houses

• Leak detection: Install a UL-listed CO detector on every level of your home to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when using a 500-gallon propane tank near your house
• Clearance around tank: In extreme heat, maintain a 10-foot radius around propane tanks clear of flammable materials like leaves, brush, and vegetation, adhering to propane tank placement regulations for houses
• Professional inspection: Have your propane system inspected annually by a qualified professional to ensure proper functioning and detect potential leaks, regardless of the 500-gallon propane tank distance from home
• Visual checks: Regularly inspect for signs of leaks, such as excessive condensation, bubbles, or frost forming on or around the propane tank placed near your house

Emergency procedures for 500-gallon propane tanks near houses

• Immediate evacuation: If you smell gas or suspect a leak from your 500-gallon propane tank near your house, immediately evacuate the premises and call 911 or your local emergency number
• Shutoff procedure: In case of a suspected leak, turn off the cylinder valve by turning it clockwise until completely closed, if it's safe to do so, regardless of how far the 500-gallon propane tank is from your house
• Professional assistance: Before re-entering the property after a suspected leak, have it inspected by a qualified building inspector or structural engineer to ensure proper propane tank placement regulations for houses are still met

FAQ

How far does a 500-gallon propane tank need to be from a house?

A 500-gallon propane tank needs to be at least 10 feet away from any house or property line, according to regulations set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Are there different distance requirements for smaller or larger propane tanks?

While this article focuses on 500-gallon tanks, distance requirements may vary for different tank sizes. Always consult local regulations and a professional installer for specific requirements based on your tank size.

Can I place my 500-gallon propane tank closer to my house if I have limited space?

No, the 10-foot minimum distance is a safety requirement and cannot be reduced. If you have limited space, consult with a professional to explore alternative placement options or consider using smaller tanks.

What are the consequences of not following propane tank placement regulations for houses?

Failing to follow regulations can result in safety hazards, potential fines, and issues with insurance coverage. It may also lead to difficulties when selling your property or obtaining necessary permits.

How do I ensure my existing 500-gallon propane tank meets current distance requirements from my home?

If you're unsure about your current tank placement, contact a licensed propane professional to assess your setup. They can verify if your tank meets current regulations and advise on any necessary changes to ensure compliance and safety.