Use of LP-Gas Mushroom-Type Heaters

Use of LP-Gas Mushroom-Type Heaters
INFORMATION BULLETIN Date: August 16, 2005
Bureau of Fire Prevention Revised: July 17, 2008
Bulletin No. 2005-02

SUBJECT: Use of LP-Gas Mushroom-Type Heaters

PURPOSE: To define the procedures in applying for a fire permit for LP-Gas Mushroom-Type Heaters (P-131)

PROCEDURES: LP-Gas Permits are regulated by San Francisco Fire Code, Section 3801.1

All applicants with the intention to use LP-Gas Mushroom-Type Heaters for temporary heating outdoor public assemblies are required to apply for a P-131 Permit for LP-Gas Storage and Use.

LP-Gas Mushroom-Type Heaters shall not be used in buildings, including tents, or partially-covered canopy-type enclosures, foyers, and enclosed court yards (SFFC, Sections 603.4 and 2404.7).

In light of the availability of LP-Gas heaters, the minimum safety instructions provided by rental companies to customers shall include, but are not limited to the following:

  • The mushroom-type heater unit shall not be left unattended.
  • Unit shall be placed on a hard and level surface.
  • The unit's LP-Gas tank shall be turned off when the heater is not in use.
  • Unit shall not be used if wind velocity is greater than 10 MPH to prevent flame out.
  • LP-Gas maximum inlet pressure shall meet manufacturer's recommendations.
  • After use, the heater unit shall be allowed to cool for at least 20 minutes before handling.
  • Unit shall only be used outdoors in a well ventilated area.
  • Unit shall not be handled while in use.
  • Unit shall be so placed as to keep children away.
  • Unit shall be placed at least ten (10) feet away from any flammable materials such as carpet, drapes, decorations, chemicals, paper goods, furniture, etc.
  • Units shall be sufficiently anchored so as to prevent accidental tip-over.
  • Units shall be sufficiently cordoned-off as to prevent casual contact by the public.
  • Unit hook-up may require the use of a suitable crescent or box-end wrench only.
  • Tanks shall be stored ten (10) feet next to any doorway or openings to a building.
  • A fire watch is required for public assembly events using mushroom-type heaters (overtime of 4 hours minimum).

If mushroom-type heaters are to be used on a permanent or continuous basis, the following will take effect 180 days after receipt of a copy of this Bulletin:

1. All Mushroom-Type Heaters will be required to be hard-piped in the ground flush with the surface of walkway. It can be run around the perimeter of a fixed fence when covered by a protective cover.

2. Applicable building permits shall be obtained from the Department of Building Inspection.

The P-131 fire permit and the required fire watch (overtime) may be obtained by applying in person at Bureau of Fire Prevention, 698 2nd Street, Room 109, San Francisco, CA 94107.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please call the Permit Section at (415) 558-3303.

Barbara A. Schultheis
Fire Marshal

InfoB 2005-02.doc
Rev. 07/17/2008