New storage rule aims to make bottled gas easier to find at filling stations
A new decree increases the amount of bottled LPG that a filling station can store without a separate licensing process, subject to safety requirements.
Archived after its publication day. Search retains this original briefing for background and accountability.
Archived 12 September 2026The change may improve local availability, particularly in lower-density areas, but it does not require every station to stock cylinders or reduce prices.
- Decree-Law 198/2026 came into force on 3 October.
- Eligible filling stations can store up to 1.56 cubic metres without the separate licensing process.
- Safety conditions still apply, and stock and retail price remain outlet-specific.
What the rule changes
The decree raises the licensing-free storage limit for bottled liquefied petroleum gas at filling stations to 1.56 cubic metres. The government says the measure is intended to improve access, including in low-density areas where distribution can be limited.
This is a regulatory change for storage. It is not a public guarantee that a particular station will start selling every cylinder type, hold stock continuously or offer a lower price.
Confirm the cylinder before travelling
Call the outlet to confirm the brand, cylinder size, connection type, exchange terms and current price. A filling station selling one bottled-gas product may not accept a different supplier's empty cylinder.
Storage remains subject to the decree's safety conditions and other applicable rules. Consumers should use an authorised supplier and should not transport or store cylinders in a way that creates a fire or ventilation risk.
What you can do now.
- 01
Confirm current stock and cylinder compatibility with the outlet.
- 02
Ask for the full price and exchange conditions.
- 03
Follow supplier instructions for transport, connection and storage.
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