--> Richmond VA > Fire

Last Updated: 2010-01-11

Flammable and Combustible Liquids: Storage, Handling, Use & Process

Permit Holder Guideline #17

PERMIT TITLE: Flammable and Combustible Liquids - Storage, Handling, Use & Process

CODE SECTION: (Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code) 3401.4

SCOPE: Permit required to store, handle or use over 5 gallons of Flammable (Class I) liquid or 25 gallons of Combustible (Class II or IIIA) inside a building or over 10 gallons of Flammable or 60 gallons of Combustible liquids outside of a building.

EXCEPTIONS:Fuel in tanks connected to and used by a vehicle or oil-burning equipment. (See Guidelines # 18A or #18B for removal or closure of underground/above ground tank.)

FEE: $75.00 (Check payable to the City of Richmond)

PERMIT EXPIRATION: ONE (1) year from date issued.

REQUIREMENTS: Permit holder agrees to abide by the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code and any special stipulations noted on permit, as well as the following:

  1. Submit site plan for exterior storage and building floorplan for interior storage, sample MSDSs with list of maximum expected quantity of each type of hazardous material, and brief description of how used and safety provisions (including emergency procedures and fire protection systems).
  2. All containers approved for contents, properly labeled, properly maintained, with proper disposal of empty containers and waste materials. Containers and piping subject to damage (from vehicular impact or otherwise) shall be adequately protected.
  3. Signs posted and maintained for NO SMOKING or open flames (& other advisories as need)
  4. Leaks will be reported immediately to the Fire Department by calling 911.
  5. Appropriate electrical bonding or grounding during liquid transfer.
  6. No flammable liquids in basement, keep flammable or combustible liquids more than 3 feet below ceiling or sprinklers. Stay in limit per control area or occupancy use per fire code (i.e.: excess beyond 10 gallons for routine maintenance or operations kept in approved liquid storage cabinets).
  7. Outdoor storage areas will be protected against tampering or trespassers where necessary and kept clear of weeds, debris and other unneeded combustible materials.
  8. Additional code concerns apply if using such liquids for cleaning, dispensing from stationary or mobile tanks, within piping system, bulk transfer, or other special operations.
  9. Additional permits might be required based upon details of operations and other materials.

Contact Information:

Fire Department
City of Richmond
201 E. Franklin St.
Richmond, VA
23219 USA
Map It
Ask Fire
Phone: (804)646-2500

This is a print version of the webpage. The navigation of the site has been removed through the print css. If you require a printout of the page as it looks in your browser, please use screen capture.