Forum Discussion

Parallel_Lines's avatar
Apr 18, 2016

Propane and tunnels

So, I used to have a job where occasionally I had to transport cylinders of compressed gas. There was a rule that you couldn't take them through tunnels. So now I'm wondering. Is there a rule about taking a vehicle with a propane cylinder through a tunnel? Is it legal? Do I have to check with each state that I am traveling through? What is the story?
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    In Virginia the tunnels has signs and the general thing to do for RV's is to turn off the PROPANE valves. This may only apply to tunnels that go down a long way where Propane can accumulate I guess... They will inspect to see if the PROPANE is turned OFF and tanks are secured to the frame...

    Chesapeake Bay Bridge/Tunnel here in Virginia is the only one I have pulled a trailer through with Propane Tanks and was checked at a very well marked pull-off just before going down into the tunnel.

    This is brief summary found on Google about the subjuct...
    PROPANE TANKS IN TUNNELS for RV's

    Check ahead if you know your route. I think in MD some tunnels in the Baltimore Area on I95 may be prohibited for RV's with propane tanks and you have to route around them... Was that way just a few years back at any rate... The report above may have some info on this - I didn't read it haha...

    Roy Ken
  • On the PA Turnpike...Northeasst Extension, there is a tunnel. As mentioned by OLD BUSCUIT, there is a very large sign long before the entrance. However...this is only for COMMERICIAL vehicles...not RVs. Been going thru this tunnel without any problems for about 20 years. From popup, TT to motorhome.

    Now...the BALTIMORE Tunnel....gotta turn the valves off...and they WILL check it.
  • YES there are SOME tunnels where the on-board propane source (portable cylinders or permanently mounted tanks) have to be valved out

    Those tunnels are East Coast and AL.....and are CLEARLY MARKED with signage LONG before you get to the tunnels.

    Tunnels and Propane

    And then there are the FERRY SERVICES.......propane source valved out
    Ferry Attendants will let you know