Diesel Tank Distance to Building

[Gogo707]

Hi all,

I have come across a 5,000 gallon diesel tank (Class II) attached to a fuel pump that is being used on an agricultural property to fuel tractors. The tank is on a concrete pad with a roof structure over it (essentially a canopy). The issue is, a barn has been built right behind the tank (5’ away) and this doesn’t seem right.

Can someone guide me through IFC to determine the required distance to a building? Even though it is only one pump, would Chapter 23 apply? Or would I use Chapter 57? I am assuming they utilized Table 2306.2.3 for this. However, the referenced code for that table has a footnote (4) that such tanks in a rural setting would need to be 50’ away.

Any guidance is appreciated.

 

[ICE]

Was a permit required or obtained for the barn? Some jurisdictions exempt agricultural from permits. If it makes a difference, diesel is the least dangerous hydrocarbon.

 

[Gogo707]

Permit was approved for the barn somehow, but trying to determine if it was a mistake

 

[ICE]

https://up.codes/viewer/north_carolina/ifc-2015/chapter/57/flammable-and-combustible-liquids#5706.2

 

[Gregg Harris]

Look at 160D-903 for agricultural exemptions

Look for the listing on the tank, if it is a protected design UL 2085 6k or less 15 feet

 

[Joe.B]

Permit was approved for the barn somehow, but trying to determine if it was a mistake

Unlikely a mistake in the way I think you mean. It's a barn, it's the lowest risk occupancy. When the code talks about "fire & life safety" they mean human life. It would be a huge bummer if the barn burns down, but that's not a high risk in the big picture. Now the farmers insurance company might think differently, but that's not codes business.

 

[MikeHoncho]

from 2021 IFC Comentary;
2306.1 General. Storage of flammable and combustible liquids shall be in accordance with Chapter 57 and Sections2306.2 through 2306.6.3.
The general requirements for storing flammable and combustible liquids are found in Chapter 57. The provisions specific to motor fuel-dispensing facilities are
found in this section. Due to the activities in locations such as convenience stores, vehicle traffic and location of most motor fuel-dispensing facilities, the provisions for tank capacities, locations and dispensing equipment are more stringent in this chapter of the code than the general provisions found in Chapter 57. Accordingly, these specific regulations take precedence over the general provisions of Chapter 57.

2306.2.3 Above-ground tanks located outdoors, above grade. (4) refers you to 5706.2 which states no less than 50 ft.