One- or two-family properties are allowed to store a maximum of two 20-pound propane cylinders outdoors.

Propane storage and use is limited to a single small disposable 16.4 ounce cylinder for all other residential properties, including the roof and terraces of apartment buildings.

Outdoor barbecue grills designed to use charcoal or electricity with a total grate area no more than 10 square feet may be installed, operated and maintained on any residential premises, as long as the barbecues are not installed or operated within 10 feet of any flammable waste or material.

View the New York City Fire Code.

The Department of Sanitation does not collect propane tanks, such as those used by gas barbecues, because they are pressurized and may explode when compressed in the garbage truck. 

You can: 

• Exchange a used tank when buying a new tank
• Bring a tank to a hardware store or private propane dealer for reuse or recycling
• Bring a used tank to a scrap metal dealer for recycling