Moving LPG bottles to a better spot in your yard is something many Kiwi homeowners want to do — whether for safety, convenience, or aesthetics. The short answer is: you can physically move the bottles themselves, but if the gas pipework, regulator connections, or flexible hoses need to be altered or extended to reach the new location, that work is legally restricted and must be carried out by a licensed gasfitter.
What You Can Do Yourself
As a homeowner, you are generally permitted to:
- Physically carry or roll LPG cylinders to a new outdoor position (provided they remain upright and are handled safely)
- Disconnect and reconnect a POL valve on a cylinder that feeds a portable appliance like a BBQ (this is considered a consumer connection)
- Check that your new location meets the required clearances before calling a gasfitter
However, the moment you need to alter, extend, or re-route the fixed gas pipework or regulators that connect your bottles to your home's gas system, you are in restricted-work territory.
What Is Restricted Work — and Why It Matters
Under the Gas Act 1992 and associated regulations, gasfitting work is restricted to people who hold a current practising licence issued by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB). This includes:
- Disconnecting or reconnecting fixed gas pipework
- Moving, replacing, or re-piping the first-stage or second-stage regulator assembly
- Installing new flexible connectors between the regulator and fixed pipework
- Any alteration to the gas installation that changes the layout or length of pipework
Doing this work yourself — or having an unlicensed person do it — is illegal and can void your home insurance. More importantly, a poorly made gas connection can cause leaks, fire, or carbon monoxide hazards.
Siting Rules: Where Can LPG Bottles Go?
Before you decide on a new location, your setup must comply with NZS 5601.1 (Gas Installation) and the NZ Building Code. Your licensed gasfitter will check these, but as a guide, LPG cylinders must generally:
| Requirement | Minimum distance (guide only — confirm with your gasfitter) |
|---|---|
| From any ignition source (e.g. meter box, switchboard) | 1 metre |
| From any opening into a building (window, door, vent) | 1 metre |
| From a property boundary | Check with your gasfitter/council |
| From a drain or pit | Cylinders must not be positioned where gas could accumulate |
Note: These are general guides. Actual requirements depend on cylinder size, the number of cylinders, and your specific installation. Always confirm with a licensed gasfitter and your local council.
Cylinders must be:
- Stored upright at all times
- On a firm, level, non-combustible surface (concrete pad is ideal)
- Secured so they cannot be knocked over (chain or bracket)
- Outdoors and well-ventilated — never in an enclosed space, garage, or under a deck without adequate ventilation
- Protected from direct heat sources and not in a location where they could be struck by vehicles
Safe Handling of LPG Cylinders
Safety note: LPG is heavier than air and will pool in low-lying areas if it leaks. Always:
- Turn the cylinder valve fully off before moving it
- Never drag or drop cylinders
- Keep cylinders away from heat, flames, and direct sunlight
- If you smell gas at any time, do not operate any switches — move away and call your gas supplier or 111
- Check the cylinder's next test date stamped on the collar; cylinders must be re-tested periodically and your supplier can advise
For more on gas safety, WorkSafe NZ publishes guidance on LPG handling.
Does Moving the Bottles Need a Building Consent?
In most cases, simply relocating LPG cylinders and having a gasfitter re-pipe the connection does not require a building consent under Schedule 1 of the Building Act — but this depends on the scope of work. If new pipework is being installed or the gas installation is significantly altered, your gasfitter will advise whether consent is needed. Always confirm with your local council if you are unsure.
Your gasfitter is required to issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for any restricted gasfitting work they carry out, which provides you with a legal record that the work was done correctly.
When to Call a Professional
You should engage a licensed gasfitter any time the move involves:
- Disconnecting or reconnecting fixed pipework or regulators
- Extending or re-routing gas lines to reach the new bottle location
- Installing a new bottle cage, manifold, or changeover valve
- Any doubt about whether your new location meets the code requirements
A licensed gasfitter will also carry out a leak test after completing the work, giving you peace of mind that everything is safe and compliant.
You can find qualified, local gasfitters in your area on tradedirectory.co.nz — look for someone with a current PGDB practising licence.
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