Bulk gas storage tanks for domestic use have received the green light from the planning authority after changes were made to the legal notice that regulates minor developments.

The authority had no regulations governing such tanks, which are often used by restaurants and hotels to store LPG gas for heating and cooking, by industry to fire furnaces and on occasions by households for domestic purposes.

The announcement was made jointly by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority and the Malta Resources Authority. The MRA, which is responsible for the safety of the storage tanks, said it published a code of practice for LPG gas installations.

As a result, Mepa amended the relevant legislation, making it possible for households to install such tanks.

Earlier this month, an Attard resident challenged the planning authority’s removal order for a 1,000-litre gas tank situated underground in his front garden since the authority had no policy covering the installation of such facilities.

The police said the man applied to install a water tank but instead built something else, which made the installation illegal.

The legality of the gas tank was first questioned by neighbours in January who complained it was not safe to have that much gas stored so close to their houses.

In court, the resident’s lawyer said Mepa chairman Austin Walker had informed his client a policy was imminent and within a month his client would have the full permit for the gas tank.

The case was put off to January for witnesses to be heard.