Ensure Fuel Tank is Adequately Distanced From the Home

05/03/2023

Why do they matter?

Utilities that penetrate your home can be a threat in a wildfire, and exterior equipment (ex: solar panels and receiver dishes) can be damaged by the high temperatures from a wildfire.

What do I need to know?

• Pressurized and liquid fuels (typically used for heating, hot water, and cooking) are flammable and explosive.
• Exterior equipment often has combustible components, and openings for ducting and conduit may be a vulnerability during a wildfire.
• Wildfires can affect power transmission, damage equipment, or cause a short circuit in the lines.
• Consider the potential effects of power outages and surges on utilities and exterior equipment: electrically-powered equipment miles away may be damaged, and water well power supplies are vulnerable.
• Roof-mounted equipment has the same ignition potential as the roofing assembly.
• Exposed, combustible delivery lines are vulnerable to wildfire (ex: pipe connections that include a rubberized gasket).
• Venting of fuel under pressure may cause significant damage or total destruction of your home.

Where do I start?

• Install utility and equipment connections underground, if possible. If underground installation isn’t possible, seal gaps and penetrations in exterior walls and roofs with fire-resistant materials. Fill large gaps with intumescent or fire-protective sheets or pillows. Use fire-resistant wrap around ventilation features that are built into and penetrate exterior walls (ex: air conditioners).
• Shield power cables and other wiring with noncombustible or fire-resistant materials.
• Use noncombustible or fire-resistant materials to mount roof-mounted equipment.
• Use surge protectors for valuable electronic equipment.
• Install Class A rated solar cell systems.
• Place fuel storage vessels 30 feet from your home, away from downhill slopes, and enclose vessels behind a noncombustible masonry wall. Bury pressurized storage vessels underground, if possible.
• Bury or shield fuel lines.
• Shield gas meters with noncombustible materials.
• Ensure pressurized storage tanks have a pressure relief valve.
• Use defensible space for the location of utilities and exterior equipment (ex: electric water pumps, fuel tanks).
• Reduce any potential combustible debris around exterior equipment.

More Resources:

• FEMA P-737, Home Builders’ Guide to Construction in Wildfire Zones.