Key Requirements for Backup Generator Fuel Tanks

When it comes to managing fuel tanks, compliance with federal and state regulations is crucial. Federal and state laws and regulations include many key requirements for leak control and prevention of both aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) and underground storage tanks (USTs). By understanding these regulations, businesses can ensure their tanks are properly registered and maintained, avoiding potential fines and environmental hazards. See below for a rundown of key requirements at the federal level as well as state-level regulation in New Jersey and Florida. For help with AST or UST installation, removal, servicing, or site remediation in New Jersey or Florida, contact the experts at Lutz Tanks for quality performance from experienced professionals you can trust.

Federal EPA Requirements

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees the regulation of USTs under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Although ASTs are not regulated by the EPA in the same manner, they can still fall under certain federal guidelines depending on the stored substances. Key EPA requirements for USTs include:

1. Registration and Notification: Owners must notify the EPA or their state environmental agency about the installation of new USTs or when ownership changes.

2. Technical Standards: UST systems must comply with EPA technical standards, including proper design, installation, and operation practices.

3. Release Detection: USTs must have release detection methods in place to identify leaks promptly. This includes automatic tank gauging systems and interstitial monitoring.

4. Spill and Overfill Prevention: Equipment to prevent spills and overfills must be installed and maintained.

5. Financial Responsibility: UST owners must demonstrate financial responsibility to cover the costs of potential releases, including clean-up and third-party damages.

For ASTs, while the EPA does not have a specific regulatory program, facilities must comply with the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) rule if they store significant quantities of oil. The SPCC rule requires facilities to prepare and implement an SPCC Plan to prevent oil discharges.

New Jersey NJDEP Requirements

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has stringent regulations for both ASTs and USTs to protect the environment and public health. Key NJDEP requirements for USTs include:

1. Registration: All USTs storing hazardous substances or petroleum products must be registered with the NJDEP. Owners must submit a UST Facility Questionnaire.

2. Operational Standards: USTs must adhere to NJDEP operational standards, including regular inspections and maintenance.

3. Release Detection and Prevention: Similar to federal requirements, New Jersey mandates release detection methods and spill prevention equipment.

4. Tank Closure: When USTs are no longer in use, they must be properly closed following NJDEP guidelines, which include soil testing and tank removal.

Key NJDEP requirements for ASTs include:

1. Permitting and Registration: ASTs must be permitted and registered with the NJDEP if they store hazardous substances. This includes submitting detailed plans and specifications for the tanks.

2. Inspection and Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance are required to ensure the integrity of ASTs.

3. Secondary Containment: ASTs must have secondary containment systems to prevent leaks from reaching the environment.

Florida FDEP Requirements

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulates ASTs and USTs to safeguard the state’s natural resources. Key FDEP requirements for USTs include:

1. Registration and Notification: USTs must be registered with the FDEP, and any changes in ownership or tank status must be reported.

2. Compliance with Standards: USTs must comply with FDEP standards, which align closely with EPA regulations regarding design, installation, and maintenance.

3. Release Detection and Prevention: UST systems must have approved methods for release detection and spill prevention.

4. Closure and Removal: When USTs are taken out of service, they must be properly closed and removed according to FDEP guidelines, including contamination assessment and reporting.

Key FDEP requirements for ASTs include:

1. Registration: ASTs storing petroleum products or hazardous substances must be registered with the FDEP.

2. Secondary Containment: ASTs must have secondary containment measures in place to prevent environmental contamination.

3. Inspection and Maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance are mandatory to ensure ASTs’ structural integrity and compliance with safety standards.

Contact Lutz Today for Help With USTs and ASTs in Florida and New Jersey

Compliance with federal and state regulations is essential for the safe and lawful operation of fuel storage tanks. Herbert Lutz & Company is dedicated to helping businesses in New Jersey and Florida navigate these complex requirements, ensuring their ASTs and USTs are properly registered, maintained, and compliant. By staying informed and proactive, businesses can avoid legal issues and contribute to environmental protection.

For help with the installation, maintenance, or removal of underground storage tanks on your property, contact Lutz Petroleum Equipment Installation in Florida at 954-971-5222 or Herbert Lutz Co., Inc. in New Jersey at 908-862-8888.