Legal quantities of petroleum for storage and transport
Petrol is a highly flammable fuel and can give off vapour which can be set on fire. When not handled safely, it has the potential to cause a serious fire or explosion.
There is always a risk of a fire or an explosion if there is a source of ignition nearby such as a naked flame or an electrical spark.
Storage of petroleum
The legal quantities of petroleum that can be stored at a property without having a petroleum licence is up to 25 litres.
This may be stored in one approved metal container or no more than 3 approved plastic containers.
These rules are set out under the Petroleum-Spirit (Storage) (Jersey) Regulations 2001.
Transport of petroleum
The legal quantities of petroleum that can be transported in a vehicle other than a fuel tanker without having a petroleum licence is up to 100 litres in closed and secure receptacles holding no more than 25 litres.
Where 5 litre plastic receptacles are used no more than 50 litres may be conveyed.
Containers, whether metal or plastic, must be approved and certified and be in good condition to prevent breakage and ensure they prevent leakage of liquid and vapour.
These rules are set out under the Petroleum-Spirit (Carriage by road) (Jersey) Regulations 2001.
Applying for a petroleum licence
Petroleum licences are issued by the Fire Safety Department to allow premises to hold and dispense petrol safely.
Your petroleum licence must be renewed annually on 1 August. If you hold a licence you'll be contacted automatically by the Fire Safety Department.
Complete the application form to apply for a new petroleum license or make amendments to your current license.
Petroleum licence application form
Petroleum (Jersey) Law 1984 on Jersey Law
Standard conditions of licence for petroleum filling stations
If you have a petroleum filling station you must adhere to certain conditions of licence.
Standard conditions of licence for petroleum filling stations
Advice for domestic fuel storage
When domestically storing fuel make sure you:
- always store fuel cans in a well-ventilated outdoor area away from heat sources, ignition points, and living spaces to minimise the risk of vapour buildup and potential fire hazards
- ensure fuel cans are stored out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or tampering. Consider using lockable cabinets or storage containers for added safety
- only use approved fuel cans specifically designed for storing and transporting flammable liquids. Avoid repurposing containers such as food or beverage bottles, which may not be suitable for fuel storage
- never overfill fuel cans beyond their maximum capacity to prevent spills and leaks. Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion of the fuel
- when refuelling vehicles or equipment, use a funnel to prevent spills and minimise contact between fuel and skin or surfaces. Wipe up any spills immediately and dispose of cleaning materials safely
- always handle fuel cans with care, avoiding rough handling, dropping, or tipping over. Even small punctures or cracks in the container can lead to leaks and potential hazards
- never smoke or use open flames near fuel cans or during refuelling activities. Even minor sparks can ignite fuel vapours, leading to fires or explosions
- ground fuel cans by touching them to a grounded metal object before and during pouring to discharge static electricity and prevent sparks
- keep fuel in its original container with the proper label intact to ensure easy identification and safe handling. Avoid transferring fuel to makeshift containers that may not be suitable for storage
- dispose of unused fuel properly according to local regulations. Do not pour fuel down drains, sewers, or onto the ground. Consider recycling options or hazardous waste disposal facilities for the safe disposal of old or unused fuel
Following these safety tips when using fuel cans domestically can help:
- prevent accidents
- protect individuals and property
- promote responsible fuel handling practices
gov.je