Domestic and Non-Workplace Storage

Petrol is a dangerous substance. It is a highly flammable and when not handled safely has the potential to cause a serious fire and/or explosion.

If storing petrol at a domestic premises it must not be stored in your living accommodation. Containers should be stored in a garage or shed away from other buildings and the area should be well ventilated and containers stored away from sources of ignition, such as electrical equipment and naked flames.

Petrol should never be stored within a house or other living accommodation 

Containers must be labelled ‘PETROL’ or ‘HIGHLY FLAMMABLE’.  They should be regularly checked to ensure they are in good condition and aren’t leaking. 

The Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulations 2014 have provisions for licensing domestic and non-workplace premises when it is being stored of private use only. These requirements are covered in its Schedule 2 (gov.uk).

No licence is required for up to 30 litres of petrol, but it MUST be stored in one of the following containers:

  • plastic containers storing up to 10 litres

  • metal containers storing up to 20 litres

  • demountable fuel tank up to 30 litres

Further information can be found in the HSE leaflet - Portable petrol storage containers (PDF, 185KB)

If you are storing between 30 - 275 litres, we, as the PEA, must be notified in writing with.

  • the name of the occupier,

  • address of the premises and

  • confirmation that the petrol is being stored in accordance with the regulations.

This information will be stored on our Operational Intelligence System and used in case of an incident at the address to assist Fire Crews.

A licence is required where over 275 litres are being stored. Licences can be issued for up to 3 years and then would need to be renewed. Licences are not transferable, and conditions may be attached to a licence with regards to how the petrol is stored.

To advise us of domestic or non-workplace storage or to apply for a licence, please email petroleum@manchesterfire.gov.uk or phone 0161 608 4040 and ask for a Petroleum Officer.