Is it legal to bury a propane tank in my yard?

Regulations and Permitting

The installation of underground propane tanks is subject to local and national regulations, including those set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). In the United States, the maximum allowed depth for a buried propane tank is 12 inches below grade, and the tank must be at least 12 inches away from any combustible materials. Your local authorities may also require a permit before installation.

Installation Requirements

To bury a propane tank safely and in compliance with regulations, the tank must be properly sized for the intended application, and the piping must be designed to handle the pressure and flow rates. The tank must also be installed with a leak detection system and a means of accessing the tank in case of an emergency. Typically, a 1/2-inch thick, Schedule 40 pipe is used for the underground run, and the pipe is buried at a 4-inch depth with at least 12 inches of soil cover.

Safety Considerations

Burying a propane tank requires careful consideration of the potential risks, including soil settling, tank damage, and exposure to water. To mitigate these risks, the tank must be installed on a stable soil type, such as clay or compacted gravel, and the surrounding soil must be compacted to prevent settling. Additionally, a cathodic protection system may be required to prevent corrosion of the tank and piping.