Storing gasoline illegally can result in fines of up to 25 million VND.
"Due to concerns about continued increases in fuel prices, some people are buying large quantities of fuel and storing it in cans and containers at home or in private warehouses for later use. I would like to ask if this act of stockpiling fuel is considered a violation of the law? If so, what is the penalty?" - A question from Mr. Nguyen Van M., Thanh Vinh Ward, Nghe An Province.
Reply:Petroleum products are hazardous and highly flammable goods, therefore their storage and handling must comply with fire safety regulations. According to the law, the illegal stockpiling of petroleum products may result in administrative penalties and confiscation of the infringing goods.
According to Article 14 of the Law on Fire Prevention, Fighting and Rescue 2024, the law strictly prohibits the illegal production, storage, transportation, use, and sale of goods, substances, and items that are hazardous in terms of fire and explosion.
Meanwhile, according to the regulations on the classification of hazardous goods in Decree 34/2024/ND-CP, gasoline and diesel fuel are classified as hazardous goods of type 3, belonging to the group of flammable liquids.
Therefore, the illegal storage of petroleum products is an act strictly prohibited by law and may be punished according to regulations.
According to Article 14 of Decree 106/2025/ND-CP on administrative penalties in the field of fire prevention and fighting, the act of illegally possessing substances and goods that are dangerous in terms of fire and explosion, but not to the extent of criminal prosecution, may be subject to a fine of 20 to 25 million VND.
In addition to fines, offenders may also have the items used in the administrative violation confiscated.
In addition, depending on the nature and severity of the violation, authorities may apply remedial measures such as requiring a reduction in the quantity or relocation of flammable and explosive hazardous materials and goods to designated areas.
Notably, the aforementioned fines apply to individual violators. In cases where organizations commit the same violation, the fine will be double the amount imposed on individuals, as stipulated by the law on administrative sanctions.
Furthermore, if the illegal stockpiling of petroleum products causes serious consequences or poses a significant risk of harm to people and property, the offender may also be prosecuted for violating fire safety regulations under criminal law.