Propane Storage in Quebec Condominiums: Lockers and Garages

In a divided co-ownership, storage in lockers and the garage raises safety, compliance and insurance issues. Between propane cylinders for the BBQ, lithium batteries for bicycles and scooters, and items such as tires and paint, what can you actually keep in a condo in Quebec? This article reviews the situation, with guidance drawn from the Civil Code of Quebec, RBQ and RGCQ best practices, up to date as of 2026-07-31.

Basic rules to know in a divided co-ownership

Before discussing specific items, remember three key principles:

• The declaration of co-ownership and the by-laws of the immovable take precedence in governing the use of common portions and private portions. The board of directors may propose storage rules, to be adopted at the annual general meeting if necessary.
• Each co-owner must use their private portions without harming the destination of the building or the safety of others (see section 1063 of the Civil Code of Quebec, on LégisQuébec).
• Common portions (e.g., the garage, corridors and technical rooms) must remain clear and safe. Items that pose a fire, explosion or poisoning risk, or that obstruct evacuation, should be prohibited there.

Refer to your declaration of co-ownership and annual general meeting resolutions for local details. If in doubt, the board of directors can consult a fire-prevention professional.

Propane: lockers and garages are a combination to avoid

Propane is highly flammable. The RBQ recommends storing cylinders outdoors, in a ventilated location and away from ignition sources. In practice, this rules out indoor lockers, underground garages and enclosed common spaces.

• Prohibit propane cylinders in indoor lockers and underground garages, even when empty. Gas residue and valves can leak.
• Do not store propane in common portions, including stairwells, waste rooms and mechanical rooms.
• If your co-ownership provides a designated ventilated outdoor space, clearly mark it (stable support, tamper-resistant lock, signage and periodic inspection). Most buildings do not have such an arrangement, so the safest approach is a complete prohibition on the property.

As for BBQs: a clean appliance without a cylinder may be kept in a locker on an acceptable basis if the by-laws allow it, but the cylinder may not. Always check the by-laws of the immovable.

Useful reminders:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cylinder labelling.
• Never transport a cylinder by elevator if it is leaking or giving off an odour.
• If you smell gas, evacuate and contact emergency services.

Reference sources: the RBQ (propane and gas appliances) and LégisQuébec for general safety and property-use rules in a divided co-ownership.

Lithium batteries: bicycles, scooters and tools

Lithium-ion batteries present a risk of thermal runaway that can lead to a fire. Several recent incidents started in lockers or poorly ventilated garages.

Good practices in a divided co-ownership:

• Avoid storing or charging lithium batteries in indoor lockers and underground garages.
• If the by-laws allow an electric bicycle or scooter to be stored in a locker, require the following: the battery must be removed; charging must take place inside the unit and under supervision; the power supply must be approved; cables must be in good condition; and no extension cords may be connected in series.
• Prohibit improvised charging stations in common portions (garage outlets, corridors and enclosed bicycle rooms), unless dedicated, compliant and ventilated infrastructure has been installed.
• Label any permitted area and specify that someone must be present during charging. Allow the battery to cool after use before placing it in the locker.

The RBQ publishes prevention notices on lithium batteries and micromobility. Use these recommendations as a basis for your by-laws of the immovable.

Underground garage: fuels, tires, oils and other materials

The garage is a common portion for restricted or general use. Its primary purpose remains parking and safe circulation.

• Gasoline and fuels: gasoline in a vehicle’s tank is tolerated by design; jerry cans and additional containers should be prohibited in the garage and lockers.
• Oils, solvents, paint and aerosols: favour a prohibition, except for a small, sealed quantity that is clearly permitted by the by-laws. Avoid all ignition sources.
• Tires: many syndicates allow one seasonal set per parking space, only if it is stored neatly and identified. Others prohibit them to limit the combustible load. Choose a clear and uniform policy.
• BBQs, propane cylinders and butane cylinders: prohibited in the garage.
• Portable equipment (portable generators and space heaters): prohibited in the garage, except when used for maintenance by a qualified contractor under supervision.

Make sure the garage signage, evacuation plan and fire extinguisher are visible and accessible. A diligent board of directors also schedules maintenance of the ventilation and detection systems, recorded in the maintenance logbook.

Lockers: what is generally permitted or prohibited

Lockers (storage lockers) are often common portions for restricted use. They are intended for clean, dry and non-hazardous items.

Generally permitted, subject to conditions:

• Sports equipment (skis, boards and rackets), luggage and seasonal decorations.
• Clean, dry traditional bicycles.
• Small pieces of furniture or closed boxes, protected from moisture and containing no hazardous materials.

Generally prohibited:

• Propane and other compressed gases; full or empty cylinders.
• Fuel, oils, paint, solvents and flammable aerosols.
• Lithium batteries while charging, damaged batteries or batteries that have not been approved.
• Equipment that produces heat or sparks.

Reference table (to be adapted to your by-laws):

Insurance, liability and proof of diligence

A loss caused by non-compliant storage may engage the liability of the at-fault co-owner and, where necessary, that of the syndicate if it failed in its duty of care. Insurers examine compliance with the by-laws and the recommendations of the authorities. Document the following:

• The adoption and distribution of clear storage by-laws.
• Periodic inspections of the lockers and garage, with notices when necessary.
• Communications to co-owners (notices, annual general meeting minutes and seasonal reminders).

In the event of a dispute, demonstrate the destination of the building, the risks and access to the by-laws (see sections 1063 et seq. of the Civil Code of Quebec; also see the syndicate’s obligations regarding the maintenance and safety of the common portions).

Putting clear, enforceable by-laws in place

For by-laws that are effective and accepted by the community:

1. Review your declaration of co-ownership and existing clauses governing the use of common portions and private portions.
2. Rely on recognized sources (RBQ, RGCQ and LégisQuébec) to support the prohibitions.
3. Set out simple lists: permitted, prohibited and permitted subject to conditions.
4. Provide for the management of exceptions (e.g., moves and authorized work).
5. Organize clear communications: signage in the garage, an annual memo before BBQ season and a reminder in the annual general meeting minutes.
6. Plan reasonable, non-intrusive inspections, with advance notice.

If you are short on time, a condominium manager can help you draft, adopt and enforce storage by-laws that are consistent with your declaration of co-ownership and maintenance logbook.

Quick FAQ

Q1. Can I keep a propane cylinder in an indoor locker?

No. As a safety measure and in accordance with RBQ recommendations, avoid storing propane indoors (in lockers, garages or common rooms).

Q2. Can I charge my electric bicycle’s battery in the garage?

No, unless a dedicated, ventilated and compliant area has been installed by the syndicate. Otherwise, charge it in your unit, under supervision and with approved equipment, if your by-laws allow it.

Q3. Are tires permitted in the parking area?

It depends on the by-laws. Many syndicates prohibit them; others allow one neatly stored seasonal set. The board of directors must decide and state the rule clearly.

For more information:

• Civil Code of Quebec – use of private portions and common portions (sections 1063 et seq.) on LégisQuébec
• RBQ – Prevention and safety (propane, lithium batteries and gas appliances)
• RGCQ – Good practices and by-laws in divided co-ownership
• OACIQ – General references for a transaction involving a divided co-ownership

multiRent resources:

• Our operations and safety management services
• Packages and support for the board of directors
• More blog articles

This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a lawyer or notary for advice regarding your situation.

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