ARC 8677C

ARC 8677C

Proposing rulemaking related to liquefied petroleum gas
and providing an opportunity for public comment

The proposed rules implement the aforementioned Iowa Code sections by adopting the provisions of the NFPA 54-ANSI Z223.1 and 58, 2024 edition, with amendments.

A Regulatory Analysis for this rulemaking was published in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin on October 30, 2024. A public hearing was held on the following date(s):

●November 25, 2024

The Department received one public comment from the Iowa Propane Gas Association (IPGA). The IPGA suggested that the references to specific versions of NFPA-54 and NFPA-58 be removed from the chapter to give clarity to Iowa businesses. However, Iowa Code section 17A.6(5) requires that rules that reference another publication cite a date certain, edition or amendment number identifying the specific version of the publication.

The IPGA also suggested that the rulemaking replace the word “will” with “shall” to align with the NFPA definitions. While that change would make the rulemaking more restrictive, it was requested by members of the industry. Furthermore, Iowa Code section 101.2 requires that the rules adopted in this chapter comply with the standards in the NFPA. The rulemaking has been revised to implement this suggestion.

Finally, the IPGA suggested that the last sentence in rule 661—226.1(101), numbered paragraph “1,” be revised to replace the words “any local” in the phrase “Any local fire department where the tank(s) is located will be advised of each installation” with the words “The reporting” or “Any reporting” fire department. The suggestion clarifies which fire department needs to be notified of installations. That suggested change has been implemented.

Persons who wish to make oral comments at a public hearing may be asked to state their names for the record and to confine their remarks to the subject of this proposed rulemaking.

Any persons who intend to attend a public hearing and have special requirements, such as those related to hearing or mobility impairments, should contact the Department and advise of specific needs.

ITEM 1.Rescind 661—Chapter 226 and adopt the following new chapter in lieu thereof:

CHAPTER 226

LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS

661—226.1(101) General requirements. The provisions of the National Fire Protection Association, NFPA 54, ANSI Z223.1-2024 National Fuel Gas Code, 2024 edition, and NFPA 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code, 2024 edition, published by the National Fire Protection Association and available at www.nfpa.org, and all references contained therein, are hereby adopted by reference as the general requirements for transportation, storage, handling, and use of liquefied petroleum gas, with the following amendments and interpretive guidelines:

1.Where a stationary installation utilizes a storage container of more than 2,000 gallons (7,750 L) of individual water capacity, or the aggregate water capacity of storage containers in a grouping is more than 4,000 gallons (15,140 L) in water capacity, the installer shall submit plans for such installation to the department for review and approval. Installation shall not commence until written approval from the department has been received. Any reporting fire department where the tank(s) is located will be advised of each installation.

2.Underground gas piping that is outside a building shall not be in physical contact with any concrete.

3.Cylinders installed permanently on roofs of buildings are prohibited.

4.All training programs shall be instructor-led by a competent trainer and include a closed book test and a skills assessment.

5.Prior to acceptance and initial operation, all piping systems (including hose) shall be visually inspected and pressure-tested by the installer to determine that the materials, design, fabrication, and installation practices comply with the requirements of this chapter.

a. Pressure testing of piping systems is required as follows:

i. Piping systems with operating pressures greater than 20 psi shall have a test pressure no less than 50 psi and shall not exceed 75 psi.

(1) The test medium used for pressure testing shall be air, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, or an inert gas.

(2) Propane vapor may be used; propane liquid shall not be used.

ii. Piping systems having operating pressures of 20 psi or less, and piping to which NFPA 54, National Fuel Gas Code, is applicable shall be pressure tested in accordance with that code.

(1) The test medium used for pressure testing shall be air, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, or an inert gas.

6.On or after January 1, 2012, the use of railroad tank cars in stationary service will be prohibited.

a. Existing installations with prior approval of the department (documented in writing) will be permitted to remain in service.

7.To the extent that NFPA standards are inconsistent with International Fire Code standards, the NFPA standards shall rule.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code chapter 101.