Florida Fire Code 48-04-4: Propane tank stored inside building

Overview

Fire code 48-04-4 (Propane tank stored inside building) is a Gas, Boiler, and Heating Equipment citation with 2,615 citations across Florida food establishments. Propane is heavier than air and, if leaked, pools at floor level where it can be ignited by any spark, pilot light, or electrical switch.

Summary generated from Florida DBPR public inspection records and Florida fire safety statutes.

Legal reference: 509.032(2)(d) FS

What the Code Says

48-04-4 — Propane tank stored inside building

Propane tank larger than 2.7 lb. water capacity (1 lb. gas capacity) located inside the building, creating a fire and explosion hazard.

— Florida Statutes & Administrative Code, DBPR Fire Safety Reporting

Fire Safety Risk

Propane is heavier than air and, if leaked, pools at floor level where it can be ignited by any spark, pilot light, or electrical switch. A propane tank inside a building that is involved in a fire becomes a potential explosive device — the tank can rupture violently (a BLEVE — Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion) sending shrapnel and a fireball in all directions. This is one of the most frequently cited fire violations, with over 2,600 citations.

Legal Requirements

Propane tanks larger than 2.7 lb. water capacity (1 lb. gas capacity) must be stored outside the building in approved locations per NFPA 58. Tanks must be secured in an upright position, protected from vehicular damage, and located away from building exits, air intakes, and ignition sources. Only small camping-size propane cylinders (1 lb.) are permitted inside buildings.

Legal Basis

509.032(2)(d) FS — The division, or its agent, shall notify the local firesafety authority or the State Fire Marshal of any readily observable violation of a rule adopted under chapter 633.

— 509.032(2)(d) FS

Most Citations by County

Florida counties with the most fire code 48-04-4 citations

County	Citations
Dade County	498
Duval County	285
Broward County	252
Orange County	247
Hillsborough County	147

Recently Cited Facilities

References

• Florida State Fire Marshal
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• Florida DBPR Division of Hotels & Restaurants
• Florida Statutes Chapter 509

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Florida fire code 48-04-4?

Florida fire code 48-04-4 (Propane tank stored inside building) falls under the Gas, Boiler, and Heating Equipment category. Propane tank larger than 2.7 lb. water capacity (1 lb. gas capacity) located inside the building, creating a fire and explosion hazard.

Why is fire code 48-04-4 (Propane tank stored inside building) dangerous?

Propane is heavier than air and, if leaked, pools at floor level where it can be ignited by any spark, pilot light, or electrical switch. A propane tank inside a building that is involved in a fire becomes a potential explosive device — the tank can rupture violently (a BLEVE — Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion) sending shrapnel and a fireball in all directions. This is one of the most frequently cited fire violations, with over 2,600 citations.

What are the requirements for fire code 48-04-4?

Propane tanks larger than 2.7 lb. water capacity (1 lb. gas capacity) must be stored outside the building in approved locations per NFPA 58. Tanks must be secured in an upright position, protected from vehicular damage, and located away from building exits, air intakes, and ignition sources. Only small camping-size propane cylinders (1 lb.) are permitted inside buildings.

How common is fire code 48-04-4 in Florida?

Fire code 48-04-4 (Propane tank stored inside building) has been cited 2,615 times across Florida food establishments. In the past 12 months, there have been 0 citations.

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