LPG Cylinder Storage Requirements for Restaurants in Singapore

Sep 11

10 min read

LPG cylinder storage requirements Singapore

Storing LPG cylinders correctly is not just a matter of finding an empty corner behind your restaurant. LPG cylinder storage requirements Singapore businesses must follow are designed around fire safety, ventilation, access, cylinder quantity, separation distances, and emergency response.

For restaurant owners, understanding these requirements before installing an LPG system can prevent expensive layout changes and compliance problems later. This guide explains the key LPG storage requirements for restaurants, where cylinders can be placed, what safety measures are needed, and what restaurant operators should check before starting operations.

LPG storage requirements can depend on the building, cylinder quantity, manifold arrangement and installation design. The information below is based on Singapore's current SCDF Fire Code and EMA guidance. A qualified professional should assess the specific installation before it is constructed or used.

Where Can LPG Cylinders Be Stored in a Singapore Restaurant?

For commercial and industrial buildings, SCDF's current Fire Code generally requires LPG cylinder installations to be located outdoors and at ground level. Indoor installations are normally not permitted unless they meet specific requirements or are approved under the applicable provisions.

For outdoor installations, LPG cylinders should generally be:

On a firm, clean, dry and level base
In a well-ventilated location
Away from passageways and exits
Protected from accidental damage and tampering
Positioned with the required separation from openings, drains, parking areas and ignition sources
Accessible to emergency responders
Accompanied by the required safety equipment and warning signage

The exact distances and allowable quantities depend on the installation.

Why LPG Cylinder Storage Is Important for Restaurants

LPG is widely used for commercial cooking because it provides a convenient and efficient fuel source. But LPG is also highly flammable, so improper storage can create serious risks.

Good Restaurant LPG safety Singapore practices are designed to prevent problems such as:

Gas accumulation
Fire exposure
Cylinder damage
Accidental valve operation
Obstructed emergency access
Gas entering buildings through openings or drains
Difficulty accessing cylinders during an emergency

Think of LPG storage like storing fuel at a petrol station: location and control matter just as much as the fuel itself.

LPG Cylinder Storage Requirements Singapore Restaurants Should Know

1. Store LPG Cylinders Outdoors Where Required

SCDF's Fire Code states that LPG cylinder installations for commercial and industrial buildings are to be located outdoors and at ground level. Indoor storage is normally not permitted unless the applicable requirements for an indoor installation are met.

This is one of the most important points for restaurant owners planning an LPG installation.

Don't assume that cylinders can simply be placed inside:

The kitchen
A storeroom
A basement
An ordinary utility room
An enclosed back-of-house area

If an indoor arrangement is proposed, it must satisfy the specific requirements applicable to that type of installation.

2. Choose a Well-Ventilated Location

LPG vapour is heavier than air. If a leak occurs in an enclosed or poorly ventilated area, gas can accumulate.

SCDF requires outdoor LPG cylinders to be placed in a well-ventilated area where leaked gas can safely and rapidly disperse. Cylinders must also be positioned so they do not obstruct passages or exits or create danger to occupants. This is why ventilation should be considered when planning LPG cylinder storage Singapore businesses require.

Avoid placing cylinders in areas where surrounding structures could trap gas.

3. Maintain the Required Distance From Fire Exits

Cylinder placement must not interfere with emergency escape routes.

Under SCDF's outdoor LPG installation requirements, cylinders must generally be at least 3 metres from a fire exit route of a building with only one exit.

Where that distance cannot be achieved, the Fire Code provides for an alternative arrangement involving a 2-hour fire-rated masonry wall of at least 1.8 metres high to achieve the equivalent separation.

This is an important consideration when restaurants have limited space around the building.

4. Keep LPG Cylinders Away From Doors and Windows

LPG storage should not be positioned too close to openings through which leaked gas could potentially enter a building.

For buildings with more than one exit, SCDF generally requires LPG cylinders to be at least 1.5 metres horizontally from openings such as:

Windows
Doors
Air vents
Certain flue outlets

If this distance cannot be achieved, the Code provides specific fire-rated wall arrangements.

Restaurant owners should therefore consider LPG storage during the initial building and kitchen layout planning rather than after renovation is completed.

5. Keep LPG Cylinders Away From Vehicle Parking Areas

Vehicles can create an additional physical and ignition hazard around LPG installations.

SCDF's outdoor installation requirements specify a minimum 3-metre distance between the LPG installation and the edge of a vehicle parking lot.

This should be considered when the restaurant is located in:

A shopping centre
A shophouse
A standalone building
A food court
A mixed-use development

6. Maintain Separation From Mechanical Air Intakes

Mechanical ventilation systems can affect how leaked LPG moves around a building.

SCDF specifies minimum horizontal separation distances between LPG cylinders/manifold systems and mechanical air intakes. The requirements differ depending on whether the intake is above or below the relevant part of the manifold system. The current Fire Code specifies:

5 metres from a mechanical air intake below any part of the manifold system
1.5 metres from a mechanical air intake above any part of the manifold system This is particularly important for restaurants operating in buildings with extensive mechanical ventilation or air-conditioning systems.

7. Keep LPG Away From Drains and Ground Openings

This is an often-overlooked part of LPG cylinder regulations Singapore restaurant owners need to understand.

SCDF specifies separation distances from uncovered openings such as:

Drains
Pits
Manholes
Basement openings

For outdoor installations with a total LPG capacity of up to 600kg, the current requirement is generally at least 1.5 metres from such uncovered openings. For installations above 600kg, the requirement increases to 3 metres.

The reason is straightforward: LPG vapour can collect in low-lying areas.

8. Keep Cylinders Away From Boundaries and Fire Engine Accessways

SCDF's outdoor LPG installation requirements generally specify that cylinders should be at least 3 metres from any boundary and any fire engine accessway.

They should also be positioned at least 10 metres from a fire hydrant under the applicable outdoor installation requirements.

These requirements help maintain access for emergency services.

9. Protect Cylinders From Public Access and Accidental Damage

LPG cylinders shouldn't be left exposed where customers, delivery vehicles or unauthorised persons can easily reach them.

SCDF requires LPG cylinder installations accessible to the public to be protected against tampering and accidental damage. Suitable options include:

Fencing
Suitable housing
Non-combustible cabinets

The specified fencing height is at least 1.8 metres where fencing is used under the relevant requirement.

For restaurants, this is particularly important when the LPG installation is near:

Public walkways
Car parks
Service areas
Loading zones
Shared access areas

10. Understand LPG Cylinder Quantity Limits

The number of cylinders you can install isn't simply a decision based on how much LPG your restaurant wants to store.

SCDF has specific provisions for eating outlets.

For an eating outlet, an LPG cylinder installation with capacity up to 600kg attached to a single manifold system may be allowed when the specified requirements are fully met.

The current Fire Code permits:

A maximum of two steel cabinets
Maximum six 50kg cylinders per cabinet
At least 600mm separation between two cabinets
Additional building and fire-resistance requirements

This means that a restaurant should determine its cylinder requirement as part of an approved installation design rather than simply adding cylinders whenever demand increases.

What About Indoor LPG Cylinder Storage?

This is where things become more complicated.

Although outdoor installation is the general requirement, SCDF provides specific provisions for certain indoor LPG installations.

For example, a separate ground-floor compartment may accommodate up to 400kg of LPG using a single manifold system, subject to conditions. The cylinder quantity is restricted to eight, regardless of individual cylinder capacity.

Such arrangements have additional requirements involving:

Fire-rated construction
Sprinkler protection
Ventilation
Gas leak detection where applicable
Emergency shut-off
Access
Drainage
Electrical installations
Separation from ignition sources

Therefore, an indoor LPG installation should never be treated as an ordinary storage room.

How to Safely Store LPG Cylinders in a Commercial Kitchen

If you're wondering how to safely store LPG cylinders in a commercial kitchen, use this practical checklist.

Location

Confirm whether outdoor installation is required
Keep cylinders at ground level where applicable
Choose a well-ventilated location
Keep away from exits
Keep away from openings
Maintain required distances from drains
Maintain separation from parking areas
Maintain separation from mechanical air intakes
Maintain access for emergency responders

Physical Protection

Use appropriate fencing or housing where required
Protect cylinders from vehicle impact
Prevent unauthorised access
Keep the installation free of unnecessary materials

Safety

Provide required warning signs
Provide required fire extinguisher
Install emergency shut-off equipment where required
Provide gas detection where required
Maintain suitable ventilation
Arrange appropriate inspection and maintenance

What Safety Equipment Is Required?

LPG cylinder storage isn't complete without appropriate safety provisions.

SCDF requires an LPG installation to have at least one approved portable B:C-rated dry chemical fire extinguisher with a minimum capacity of 9kg. Required warning signs/notices must also be provided.

Depending on the installation, other provisions can include:

Gas leak detection
Emergency shut-off valves
Remote cut-off devices
Fire hose reels
Sprinkler protection
Mechanical ventilation
Fire suppression systems

The exact requirements depend on the installation type and location.

LPG Storage and Manifold Systems

Many commercial restaurants use a manifold system rather than connecting individual cylinders directly to appliances.

A simplified arrangement can look like:

LPG cylinders → Manifold → Regulator → Gas piping → Kitchen appliances

A manifold system can make supply management more organised, particularly for restaurants with higher LPG consumption.

However, the manifold and cylinder storage must be designed together.

SCDF requires LPG plans to identify items such as:

Cylinder location and quantity
Manifold system
Regulators
Changeover valves
Emergency shut-off valves
Remote cut-off devices
Pipe entries
Cylinder housing
Nearby openings and exits
Fire-safety provisions

Why Restaurant Owners Should Plan LPG Storage Early

One common mistake is leaving LPG storage until the end of the restaurant renovation.

By that stage, the owner may already have finalised:

Kitchen equipment
Electrical systems
Ventilation
Air-conditioning
Drainage
Building access
Parking arrangements

Then they discover that the proposed LPG location doesn't meet the required separation distances.

This can result in:

Layout changes
Additional construction
Delayed opening
Additional installation costs
Approval complications

The better approach is to plan LPG storage alongside the kitchen design.

Who Should Install and Inspect the LPG System?

Gas installation work should not be treated as a DIY project.

EMA states that gas service work involving piped gas installations or piped gas appliances must be undertaken by a licensed Gas Service Worker, and such work must be tested before the piped gas supply can be turned on.

For commercial premises, EMA states that consumers are required to engage a Licensed Gas Service Worker or Professional Engineer to inspect and certify that the gas installation is safe for use.

EMA also provides an online service for checking licensed gas service workers.

This is especially important when installing a new restaurant LPG system or modifying an existing one.

LPG Storage Maintenance Checklist

Correct installation is only the beginning.

Restaurant owners should also establish a regular inspection and maintenance routine.

Check for:

Cylinders

Visible damage
Corrosion
Correct positioning
Secure connections

Manifold

Damaged components
Valve condition
Pressure-control equipment
Signs of leakage

Piping

Corrosion
Physical damage
Loose connections
Unusual odours

Safety Equipment

Fire extinguisher availability
Warning signs
Emergency shut-off equipment
Gas detection equipment where applicable

EMA states that periodic inspection of gas installations is necessary to identify issues such as leaks, corrosion and damaged pipes at an early stage.

Common LPG Cylinder Storage Mistakes

Storing Cylinders in an Ordinary Storeroom

A normal storeroom isn't automatically suitable for LPG storage.

Blocking Emergency Access

Never position cylinders where firefighters or occupants cannot safely access or leave the area.

Placing Cylinders Near Drains

LPG vapour can accumulate in low-lying areas, making separation from drains and other openings important.

Ignoring Air Intakes

Mechanical ventilation systems can affect gas dispersion, so required separation distances must be considered.

Storing Too Many Cylinders

Cylinder quantities must comply with the applicable installation requirements.

Leaving Cylinders Unprotected

Publicly accessible installations need suitable protection against tampering and accidental damage.

Choosing the Location After Renovation

LPG storage should be incorporated into the restaurant's design from the beginning.

Practical Example: LPG Storage for a New Restaurant

Imagine a new restaurant plans to use several 50kg LPG cylinders.

Before installing them, the owner should assess:

Where the cylinders will be located
Whether the location is outdoors and at ground level
Distance from exits
Distance from windows and doors
Distance from drains and pits
Distance from mechanical air intakes
Distance from parking areas
Distance from boundaries and fire accessways
Cylinder quantity and total LPG capacity
Manifold and regulator arrangement
Required fire-safety equipment
Emergency shut-off arrangements

Only after these factors are assessed should the final LPG storage arrangement be installed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the LPG cylinder storage requirements for restaurants in Singapore?

Restaurants using LPG must comply with applicable SCDF Fire Code requirements covering cylinder location, quantity, ventilation, separation distances, protection, fire safety and manifold systems. Commercial and industrial LPG cylinders are generally required to be installed outdoors and at ground level, subject to specific provisions.

Where can LPG cylinders be stored in a Singapore restaurant?

For commercial premises, LPG cylinder installations are generally located outdoors and at ground level in a well-ventilated area. Specific separation distances from exits, openings, drains, parking areas, boundaries and other features must be maintained.

Can LPG cylinders be stored inside a restaurant?

Indoor LPG installations are normally not permitted unless they comply with specific SCDF requirements or receive the applicable approval. Certain separate compartments or recessed arrangements may be allowed subject to requirements involving fire resistance, ventilation, quantity, detection and other safety measures.

How far should LPG cylinders be from a fire exit?

For an outdoor LPG installation at a building with only one exit, SCDF generally requires at least 3 metres from the fire exit route. Specific alternative fire-rated wall arrangements may apply when the distance cannot be achieved.

How far should LPG cylinders be from drains?

For outdoor installations with total LPG capacity up to 600kg, SCDF generally specifies at least 1.5 metres from uncovered openings such as drains, pits and basement openings. For capacities above 600kg, the distance is generally 3 metres.

Can LPG cylinders be kept near windows?

LPG cylinders must maintain the applicable separation from building openings. For buildings with more than one exit, the general outdoor requirement is at least 1.5 metres horizontally from openings such as windows and doors, subject to the specific provisions in the Fire Code.

How many LPG cylinders can a restaurant store?

There is no single number applicable to every restaurant. For eating outlets, SCDF allows certain installations up to 600kg connected to a single manifold system when all specified requirements are met, including cabinet and cylinder limits.

Does an LPG installation need professional inspection?

Yes. EMA states that commercial premises must engage a Licensed Gas Service Worker or Professional Engineer to inspect and certify that the gas installation is safe for use.

Conclusion

Understanding LPG cylinder storage requirements for restaurants in Singapore is essential before installing or expanding a commercial LPG system. The right storage location needs to account for ventilation, fire exits, building openings, drains, air intakes, parking areas, boundaries, cylinder quantities and emergency access.

The most important takeaway is simple: don't choose an LPG storage location based only on available space. It needs to be planned around the applicable safety and regulatory requirements.

If you're opening a restaurant, upgrading your commercial kitchen, or planning a new LPG manifold system, professional guidance can help you select an appropriate and compliant setup.

Jia Liang LPG can help restaurant owners assess their LPG supply requirements and plan a suitable commercial LPG solution.