Above Ground Diesel Storage Tank Environmental Regulations

Diesel fuel that is stored above ground is bound by certain regulations. The above ground diesel storage tank environmental regulations were put in place to help prevent the risk of ground water contamination. If you’re storing diesel fuel you need to know the laws involved.

Storing diesel fuel may be necessary for certain businesses. There are strict regulations regarding how this can be stored. This is to prevent contamination to ground water and other damage to the environment that can’t be easily fixed.

Tank Location

The location of the tank needs to be no less than 40 feet away from any structure. This is to prevent devastation in the event of a fire. If the structure catches fire and the tank is too close it could be a disaster.

Clear Tank Markings

Above ground diesel storage tanks must be clearly marked with several signs. The tank needs to be labeled as “Flammable”. There should also be “no smoking” signs clearly in place. This reduces the risk of fire when people are around.

Reporting

If there is a leak or a suspected leak it must be reported to the E.P.A. as well as state authorities. The damage from the leak is assessed and the property owner will be responsible for any clean-up costs. There will also be hefty fines assessed for leaks since the regulations are in place to avoid this entirely.

Tank Registration

If you have any plans on storing diesel, either above or in-ground, you need to have the tanks registered. This allows the E.P.A. to come in and inspect the tanks easily without confusion. To register the tanks you have to follow all of the current laws regarding location, marking and construction.