Propane permit reminder issued by BC Safety Authority

The BC Safety Authority (BCSA) has issued a reminder to propane tank owners in British Columbia of their responsibility to obtain an operating permit as required by the Safety Standards Act.

All owners of propane tanks must obtain a permit for each tank that is in operation. Photo www.propane101.com

All owners of propane tanks are responsible for providing tank data to the BCSA and must obtain a permit for each tank that is in operation. The permit requirement is applicable regardless of the type of installation (industrial, commercial, residential, etc.). However, the operating permit fee will be automatically waived for tanks equal to or less than 500 USWG, regardless of purpose or use. Owners can apply for a fee waiver for tanks over 500 USWG that are used for residential purpose only.

“An operating permit is required for all operational propane tanks in order for BCSA to provide safety oversight,” said Tony Scholl, BCSA’s safety manager for boilers, pressure vessels and refrigeration.

Since 2004, propane tanks that are in operation and pressurized above 15 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) require a BCSA operating permit. Common sizes of the tanks currently available vary from 120 U.S. water gallons (USWG) up to 1000 USWG.

“We’re working to help owners become more aware of their operating permit obligations and how to comply with safety regulations,” said Scholl.

Currently, over 80 per cent of propane suppliers have applied for tank operating permits to comply with safety regulations and BCSA is receiving more tank information daily.

More information and educational videos about propane pressure vessels are available at www.safetyauthority.ca/permits-approvals/operating-propane. Additional questions can be directed to BCSA by e-mail: propane@safetyauthority.ca or tel. 778.396.2033.