Ameer Randolph
If you're considering installing a fuel tank on your property, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the size of the tank matters, as larger tanks may be subject to regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Additionally, underground tanks have specific requirements, such as registration and testing, to prevent leaks and pollution. Above-ground tanks also have safety requirements, including distance from buildings and the use of double-walled or single-walled tanks. Costs, convenience, and security are other important aspects to think about when deciding whether to have a fuel tank on your property.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank capacity | 1,000 gallons or less for private property; 1,100 gallons or less for farm and residential tanks |
| Fuel type | Heating oil, No. 1, No. 2, No. 4-light, No. 4-heavy, No. 5-light, No. 5-heavy, No. 6, Navy Special Fuel Oil, Bunker C, diesel fuel, and kerosene |
| Fuel usage | Non-commercial purposes, on-site use for heating, generating emergency power, steam, process heat, or electricity |
| Fuel storage location | Underground or above-ground; above-ground tanks are preferred for easy inspection and relocation |
| Fuel storage design | Double-walled tanks are preferable to single-walled tanks to prevent leaks; tanks should be filled to no more than 95% capacity |
| Fuel storage placement | Tanks should be at least 25-40 feet away from any buildings, water bodies, or combustible materials; avoid proximity to entrances and exits |
| Fuel security | Secure keypads with PINs, cameras, fencing, and locks to prevent theft and vandalism |
| Fuel regulations | EPA regulations, state and local laws, and fire regulations must be followed; some states have their own regulations |
| Fuel tank costs | Rental or purchase costs, fuel costs, and potential insurance cost increases |
| Fuel convenience | Easy access to fuel, bulk rates, and control over fuel usage and costs |
| Fuel risks | Soil and groundwater pollution, spills, leaks, and expensive issues |
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What You'll Learn
Fuel tank regulations
For underground storage tanks, the EPA's regulations generally apply to tanks over 1,000 gallons in capacity. Tanks that are 1,000 gallons or less and used for personal, non-commercial purposes on private property may be exempt from EPA regulations. However, some states may have their own rules for smaller tanks. USTs storing heating oil, motor fuel, or fuel for emergency power generators are also subject to EPA regulations.
Above-ground fuel tanks are also subject to safety regulations. These tanks should be located at least 25 feet away from any building and protected by barriers such as piping, wood framing, concrete pillars, or wheel stops. Single-wall tanks must be placed in a diked area that can contain 110% of the largest tank's capacity. Double-walled tanks are preferable as they offer better protection against leaks. All tanks should have visible labels indicating contents, hazards, storage capacity, and tank ID.
In terms of fuel systems, the US Department of Transportation (DOT), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), and state agencies like the California Air Resources Board (CARB) have a role in regulation. The legality of gravity-fed fuel systems is ambiguous, but they may violate DOT regulations and pose safety risks due to overfilling and pressure build-up.
It's important to note that fuel tank regulations are subject to change and updates. For instance, the EPA revised its UST regulations in 2015, and mortgage companies are increasingly requiring environmental investigations of properties with fuel tanks to mitigate risks associated with underground pollution. Therefore, it is essential to stay informed about the latest regulations and consult relevant authorities when installing or maintaining fuel tanks.
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Installation and maintenance
The installation and maintenance of a fuel tank on your property require careful consideration of various factors, including local regulations, safety measures, and maintenance practices. Here are some essential guidelines:
Installation:
- Regulations and Permissions: Before installing a fuel tank, familiarize yourself with the federal, state, and local laws and regulations that apply to your specific location. Check with your local Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for any rules and regulations they enforce. Some states have unique regulations for fuel tanks, so ensure you understand how these apply to your installation.
- Tank Selection: Choose a tank that meets all applicable codes and regulations. Consider purchasing a complete tank from a reputable supplier, or check with your fuel supplier, as some may provide a fuel tank if you commit to buying a certain amount of their product.
- Location: Place the tank in a well-lit, open area that is not too close to entrances or exits. Ensure it is visible but not easily accessible, and consider installing a fence with a heavy lock to deter theft. Follow best practice recommendations for spacing, such as keeping the tank at least 25 feet from any building. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends a minimum distance of 40 feet (including the fueling apron) from any buildings, water sources, or combustible materials.
- Tank Protection and Safety: Install barriers to protect the tank from vehicles and potential impacts. These can include piping, wood framing, concrete pillars, or wheel stops. Pipe bollards are commonly used around fuel tanks. For above-ground storage tanks (ASTs), consider a diked area, typically made of concrete containment, to retain fuel in case of leaks. Double-walled tanks are preferable to single-wall tanks as they provide an extra layer of protection against leaks.
- Signage and Labelling: Display clear and visible signage around the tank. The NFPA recommends "NO SMOKING" signs and "FLAMMABLE–KEEP FIRE AND FLAME AWAY" warnings in bright red letters with a minimum height of 6 inches. Labels on the tank should include hazard warnings, material stored, storage capacity, and a unique tank ID number.
- Fuel Source: Ensure you have a reliable fuel supplier who can meet your demands. Some suppliers may provide a fuel tank as part of an agreement to purchase their fuel.
Maintenance:
- Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the tank and its containment structures to identify and address potential issues. Check for cracks, punctures, leaks, and water accumulation, which can reduce the volume of fuel that the containment structure can hold.
- Preventative Measures: Understand the quality of the fuel you are storing and take preventive measures to maintain its condition. Implement year-round or winter treatments to prevent issues such as corrosion, gelling, and plugging.
- Security and Theft Prevention: Secure the fuel with measures such as digital keypads with individual PINs for each authorized user. Install video cameras and lighting to deter both employees and criminals from stealing fuel or inventory.
- Spill and Leak Prevention: Ensure tanks are filled to no more than 95% capacity to allow for expansion. Implement curbing or vehicle barriers to control vehicle placement near tanks and reduce the risk of spills.
- Testing and Compliance: Stay up to date with any required testing and compliance checks, especially if your tank is over 1,000 gallons. EPA regulations may apply if your tank exceeds this capacity, and mortgage lenders may also require environmental investigations.
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Pros and cons of having a fuel tank
Pros of having a fuel tank on your property
- Having a fuel tank on your property can give you more control over your fuel costs. You can monitor who is using the fuel, for what purpose, and when. This can help in cutting down costs, eliminating waste, and preventing theft.
- You can purchase fuel in bulk at lower rates when the price decreases, instead of paying retail prices at gas stations.
- You can save on rental costs and minimum annual consumption fees by owning a tank.
- You have the freedom to shop around for the best rates and negotiate prices with suppliers.
- You can customize your tank, for example, by choosing its color.
- You can choose to install the tank above or underground, depending on your preference and convenience.
- If you have a large company with a fleet of vehicles or large machinery, having a bulk fuel tank can save you time and money.
Cons of having a fuel tank on your property
- Fuel tanks can be expensive to purchase or rent.
- There may be additional costs for testing, maintenance, and replacement, especially if your tank is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
- Fuel tanks can be a safety hazard, presenting risks of fires, explosions, pollution, and theft.
- Regular inspections and maintenance are required to identify and address potential issues such as cracks, punctures, and leaks.
- There may be restrictions on the distance of the tank from buildings and the need for barriers or containment areas to prevent spills and leaks.
- Resale of your property may be impacted as potential buyers may require testing or discounts due to the presence of the fuel tank.
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Safety requirements
The safety requirements for fuel tanks on private property vary depending on the size of the tank and the fuel it contains. If your fuel tank is 1,000 gallons or less and on your private property for personal use, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations likely do not apply to you. However, some states have their own regulations, so it is important to check with your local authorities.
If your fuel tank is over 1,000 gallons, even on your own property, you will likely need to register it with the EPA and have it tested. This is because larger fuel tanks pose a greater potential threat to human health and the environment and are, therefore, subject to more stringent regulatory requirements.
For above-ground fuel tanks, several safety requirements must be considered. Firstly, double-walled tanks are preferable to single-wall tanks as they provide extra protection against sun, rain, and punctures. Leak detectors should also be inserted between the inner and outer tanks to detect any leaks and initiate an alarm. Single-wall tanks, while acceptable in most areas, are more prone to corrosion and leaks and must be located in a diked area that can contain 110% of the largest tank's capacity. This diked area is typically made of concrete and should be inspected regularly to identify and address any issues such as cracks, punctures, leaks, and rainwater accumulation.
Additionally, fuel tanks should be located at least 25 feet away from any buildings to minimize the risk of fire and explosion. Barriers, such as piping, wood framing, concrete pillars, or wheel stops, must be installed to protect the tank. Curbing can also be used to control vehicle placement near the tanks. Visible labels indicating the contents, hazards, material stored, storage capacity, and tank ID number are also required.
It is important to note that the EPA has specific regulations for underground storage tanks (USTs) and aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) that are part of a UST system. These regulations cover tank design and installation, leak detection, spill and overfill control, corrective action, and tank closure. ASTs holding oils may be subject to the EPA's Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) regulation, which aims to prevent and control oil spills.
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Fuel tank rental or purchase
Fuel tanks are available for rent or purchase, and they come in a range of capacities and styles. If you are considering renting or buying a fuel tank, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you must determine the purpose of the fuel tank and the specific requirements of your job site. This includes considering the compatibility, portability, and capacity of the fuel tank. For instance, larger worksites with multiple fuel tanks and other equipment may require a tank with a larger capacity and remote-monitoring features. On the other hand, smaller or temporary projects may only need a more compact and trailer-mounted option.
It is also essential to be aware of the safety requirements and regulations surrounding fuel tanks. Above-ground fuel tanks, for example, should be placed at least 25 feet away from any building, and barriers such as piping, wood framing, concrete pillars, or wheel stops should be installed to protect the tank. Additionally, double-walled tanks are preferable to single-wall tanks as they provide better protection against leaks and are more durable. Single-wall tanks are still acceptable in most areas but must be located in a diked area that can contain 110% of the largest tank's capacity.
When renting a fuel tank, companies like United Rentals offer a wide selection of options with capacities ranging from 100 to 7,000 gallons. These tanks are designed to safely store, transport, and dispense flammable liquids such as propane, diesel, and gasoline. The rental option provides flexibility and can be ideal for temporary projects or jobsites requiring an extended fuel supply.
On the other hand, purchasing a fuel tank may be more suitable if you have long-term or consistent fuel storage needs. Buying a fuel tank gives you complete ownership and control over the tank's usage and maintenance. However, it is important to note that owning a fuel tank, especially an underground one, comes with additional considerations. For example, in the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has specific regulations for underground storage tanks (USTs), and tanks over 1,000 gallons must be registered and tested to comply with EPA standards. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to legal and financial consequences. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully consider the applicable regulations and the potential risks and expenses associated with owning a fuel tank before making a purchase decision.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on several factors, including the size of the tank, local laws and regulations, and the intended use of the fuel. Some jurisdictions may have specific limits on the amount of fuel that can be stored on residential property. It is important to check with your local authorities and review the relevant regulations before installing a fuel tank.
Above-ground fuel tanks should be properly secured and maintained to prevent fires, explosions, pollution, and theft. They should be located at least 25 feet away from any buildings and be protected by barriers such as piping, wood framing, or concrete pillars. Regular inspections should be conducted to identify and address potential issues such as cracks, punctures, and leaks.
Yes, having a fuel tank on your property may impact your insurance coverage and premiums. It is important to consult with your insurance provider to understand any additional requirements or costs associated with having a fuel tank. They may require additional safety measures or increase your liability coverage.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has specific regulations for fuel storage tanks, particularly for underground storage tanks (USTs). These regulations include requirements for tank design, installation, leak detection, spill and overfill control, and corrective action in the event of a leak. The EPA also has financial responsibility requirements for UST owners and operators to cover the costs of corrective actions and compensation for property damage.
Having a fuel tank on your property can offer several advantages, including convenience, control over fuel costs, and efficiency. On-site fuel tanks eliminate the need to visit gas stations, saving time and money. They also provide better control over fuel usage, allowing for robust reporting and cost-cutting. Additionally, purchasing fuel in bulk and taking advantage of lower prices can result in significant savings.
