San Francisco Considers Banning Lockable Butane Torches
Proposed legislation seeks to reduce fire risks associated with butane torches that maintain a continuous flame.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Property Crime
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San Francisco officials are considering a ban on the sale of lockable butane torches to prevent fire incidents. The locking mechanism allows torches to remain lit without manual pressure, posing a risk if left unattended.
Why it matters
Authorities aim to mitigate fire hazards after identifying incidents where torches were left lit while users were incapacitated. The proposal follows a similar legislative approach taken in other cities to curb property damage and personal injury.
Proposed legislation would impose a $500 fine on retailers for an initial sale violation and $1,000 for subsequent offenses. Three fires linked to locked butane lighters have been recorded in the city so far in 2026.
The players
San Francisco Fire Department
This municipal agency is responsible for fire suppression, emergency medical services, and fire safety investigations throughout the city.
The details
The locking feature allows users to keep a flame burning indefinitely after activation, which can ignite surrounding items if the torch is dropped or left unattended. One person has already died in San Francisco in 2026 due to a fire involving one of these devices.
Timeline
2020: Torches became increasingly common.
January 2023 - April 2024: Six people died and 79 were injured in Vancouver due to lighter-related fires.
2024: Vancouver enacted a ban on lockable butane lighters.
2025: The San Francisco Fire Department reported 21 fire incidents related to lighter misuse.
2026: Three fires involving locked butane lighters occurred in San Francisco.
Legal Context
San Francisco is looking toward the 2024 Vancouver ban on lockable butane lighters as a legislative blueprint. This proposal marks the first time a United States city has sought to restrict these devices, contrasting with the lack of existing national regulations.
If the ban passes, local retailers will be required to stop selling these specific torches or face monetary penalties. Residents should remain cautious when using any device that features a locking mechanism to prevent accidental ignitions in their homes.
The takeaway
Lockable lighters pose a significant risk when they are left unattended or used by people who may fall asleep. Implementing safety measures and adhering to fire prevention guidelines can help homeowners avoid accidental property damage.
Further reading
For more information on ongoing safety efforts, visit the Property Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ABC7 San Francisco.
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