Does the change to the underground storage tank (UST) regulatory program regarding fueling systems affect you?
Summary
All single-walled fueling systems (underground storage tank and piping) must be removed from service. Senate Bill (SB) 445, which became effective on September 25, 2014, changed the UST regulatory program regarding fueling systems. All regulated USTs that do not meet the requirements of Health and Safety Code (H&SC), Chapter 6.7, Section 25291, Subdivisions (a)(1)-(6) must be permanently closed on or before December 31, 2025.
To meet the new requirements, both the tank and connected piping must provide primary and secondary levels of containment (double-walled) and a leak detection system.
Who is affected?
Some examples of USTs that will require closure (removal) include the following:
- A single-walled UST installed before January 1, 1984, that has either a single-walled tank or connected single-walled piping
- A UST installed between January 1, 1984, and January 1, 1997, which has a single-walled tank that uses an exterior membrane liner or monitoring wells to detect any release of the stored substance
- A UST installed between January 1, 1984, and July 1, 1987, that has a double-walled tank and connected single-walled piping
- This includes single-walled lined tanks and single-walled tanks with a rigid or flexible bladder
Funding is available, but don't delay!
The good news is that there is funding available! Replacing, Removing, or Upgrading Underground Storage Tanks (RUST) grants and loans are available to assist with financing up to 100 percent of the costs necessary.
Loans and grants through the RUST program are limited annually, and chances for funding are greater the earlier the UST owners or operators apply. In addition, if upon permanent closure, a release is identified, the owner or operator may need to undertake corrective actions. Additional funding is also available through the UST Cleanup Fund. Filing a claim, completing corrective action, and receiving reimbursement of costs can be a lengthy process and can last as long as 5 to 15 years, so it is best not to delay!
How can GHD help?
GHD's environmental professionals can assist you every step of the way, from applying for funding through planning and construction. For decades, our staff has worked with UST owners and operators to ensure compliance. Our services include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Grant application preparation
- Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) permitting
- Overall strategy planning and coordination
- Bidding and contractor procurement
- Construction oversight
- Required sampling and reporting
- Agency interaction
- Project management and closure of environmental cases
For more background information: