Sylvie Willis
Underground fuel tanks have been used since the 1930s, and over a million are still buried today. Removing one is a serious process that should be handled by a professional. The process varies depending on location, but generally, the local government must be informed about the tank removal plan 30 days prior to removal. The tank will be cleaned and disposed of at a recycling/scrap metal facility. The remover will then take soil samples to determine if there has been a release of petroleum into the environment. If there has been, remediation will be required.
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What You'll Learn
Notify local and state government
Removing an underground fuel tank is a complex process that requires careful planning and adherence to federal, state, and local regulations. It is essential to notify the local and state governments about your intention to remove an underground fuel storage tank (UST). This notification process ensures compliance with environmental and safety standards and helps prevent potential hazards. Here are the key steps to follow when notifying local and state governments about your underground fuel tank removal:
Identify the Relevant Agencies:
Locate the appropriate state and local regulatory agencies responsible for overseeing UST removal. In most cases, the state agency in charge of oil pollution control activities or the local environmental protection agency will be the primary point of contact. Contact information for these agencies can be found on their official websites or through government directories.
Understand the Timeline Requirements:
Notify the relevant agencies well in advance of the planned removal date. The specific timeline may vary by state and local regulations, but it is generally recommended to provide notification at least 30 days before any removal activity. This allows the agencies to review your plans and provide any necessary guidance or permits.
Complete the Necessary Forms:
Obtain and carefully fill out the required forms for UST removal notifications. The specific forms may differ depending on your location, but they typically include details such as the location of the UST, the planned removal method, and information about the certified remover or contractor handling the process. Ensure that you submit all the necessary documentation, including any permits or licenses required for the removal process.
Provide Detailed Information:
When notifying the local and state governments, be sure to include comprehensive details about the UST removal. This includes information such as the size and type of the tank, the contents of the tank, the proposed removal method (excavation or in-place closure), and how you plan to handle and dispose of any hazardous materials, such as contaminated soil or residual fuel. Transparency and accuracy in this step are crucial to ensuring a safe and compliant removal process.
Stay in Communication:
Maintain open lines of communication with the relevant agencies throughout the UST removal process. If there are any changes to your plans or unexpected developments, promptly notify the appropriate agencies. Additionally, be responsive to any requests for additional information or site inspections that may arise during the removal process.
By following these steps and staying informed about the specific requirements in your area, you can effectively notify local and state governments about your underground fuel tank removal plans, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards. Remember that the regulations surrounding UST removal can be complex and may vary across jurisdictions, so it is always advisable to consult with experts or seek guidance from the relevant agencies directly.
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Hire a certified remover
Removing an underground fuel tank is a complex and potentially dangerous process. It is highly recommended to hire a certified remover to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Here are some reasons why hiring a certified remover is essential:
- Safety: The removal process can be hazardous, with potential risks of explosion, environmental contamination, and accidents. Certified removers are trained and experienced in handling these risks safely. They follow strict safety procedures to minimize the chances of oil spills, fires, or other dangers.
- Environmental Compliance: Improper removal of underground fuel tanks can lead to soil and groundwater contamination. Certified removers are responsible for proper waste disposal, including contaminated soil, excavated material, tank contents, and cleaning water. They ensure that all waste is transported and disposed of at licensed facilities, adhering to federal, state, and local regulations.
- Regulatory Compliance: State and federal regulations mandate specific processes for removing underground fuel tanks. Certified removers are knowledgeable about these regulations and will ensure compliance throughout the removal project. This includes providing the required notifications to regulatory agencies, obtaining necessary permits, and following correct closure procedures.
- Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness: Certified removal companies have the necessary equipment, resources, and expertise to complete the job efficiently. They can save you time and money by handling the entire process, from planning to disposal, in a timely and safe manner. Their expertise helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures that the project is completed correctly the first time.
- Insurance and Liability: Reputable certified removal companies carry the necessary insurance to cover any accidents, errors, or injuries that may occur during the project. This protects you from potential financial liability. Additionally, insurance companies typically cover trained professionals, ensuring that you qualify for insurance benefits.
- Peace of Mind: Hiring a certified remover gives you peace of mind knowing that your underground fuel tank will be removed safely, compliantly, and efficiently. They will handle all the necessary paperwork, permits, and disposal requirements, ensuring that your property is free from any environmental or regulatory issues related to the tank removal.
When hiring a certified remover, it is essential to verify their credentials, experience, and insurance coverage. Check with your local regulatory agency or state environmental department to ensure the company is registered, certified, and in good standing. Request proof of insurance and references from previous clients to ensure their reputation and reliability. By taking these steps, you can be confident in your choice of a certified remover and ensure a smooth and safe underground fuel tank removal process.
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Dispose of waste
The removal of an underground fuel tank is a complex process that requires careful planning and adherence to federal and state regulations to ensure safety and environmental protection. The disposal of waste generated during this process is a critical aspect that must be handled responsibly. Here are the key steps and considerations for disposing of waste during and after underground fuel tank removal:
Waste Identification and Segregation
The first step in proper waste disposal is identifying and segregating the different types of waste generated during the tank removal process. This includes excavated material, non-salvageable storage system components, the tank itself, any fuel or sludge in the tank, contaminated soil, and the water used for cleaning. Each type of waste must be properly identified and separated to facilitate appropriate disposal or treatment.
Licensed Disposal Facilities and Transporters
The waste materials must be transported and disposed of using specialised facilities and transporters that possess the necessary federal, state, and local licenses or permits. This ensures that the waste is handled and disposed of in accordance with regulatory requirements. The certified remover, who is responsible for the proper disposal, will arrange for the transportation and disposal of the waste in accordance with applicable laws and guidelines.
Hazardous Waste Management
Some waste materials, such as fuel, sludge, and contaminated soil, are considered hazardous and require special handling and disposal methods. Residual material left in the tank, for example, can be hazardous to the environment, and proper disposal processes must be followed. In some cases, the oxygen in the tank is replaced with nitrogen, carbon dioxide, or other non-explosive gases to reduce the risk of explosion during the removal and disposal process.
Documentation and Reporting
Proper documentation and reporting are crucial aspects of waste disposal. Manifests or receipts must be submitted to certify the proper transport, receipt, and disposal of waste materials. Additionally, a permanent closure report, including sampling data and any remaining contamination details, must be submitted to the relevant state regulatory agency (such as the DNR) within a specified timeframe, typically around 45 days after the tank system closure.
Soil Contamination and Remediation
Soil contamination is a significant concern during underground fuel tank removal. Federal and state guidelines dictate the proper handling and disposal of contaminated soil. In some cases, environmental consultants may perform release assessments to determine if there has been a release of petroleum or other hazardous substances into the environment. If contamination is detected, the certified remover will manage and arrange for the proper disposal or treatment of the contaminated soil, ensuring that it is not pushed back into the excavation but instead transported away from the site.
Tank Disposal or Reuse
Most tanks removed from the ground are not suitable for reuse due to the hazardous nature of their previous contents. These tanks are typically scrapped or destroyed and disposed of in specialised landfills. Before transporting the tanks from the site, they must be properly labelled with hazard warnings, information about their previous contents, and the date of removal.
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Sample soil
If you have an underground fuel tank on your property, it is important to consider the potential environmental hazards and dangers associated with improper removal. Over time, the condition of the tank can deteriorate, leading to leaks that can contaminate the surrounding soil and groundwater. Due to these risks, federal and state regulatory agencies have set rules and regulations for the removal process to ensure proper licensing and environmental protection.
Before removing an underground fuel tank, it is crucial to test for any leaks and assess the extent of contamination. This includes investigating the impact on both soils and groundwater, as required by federal and state guidelines. Soil sampling is an essential part of this process, as it helps determine the presence and extent of contamination. Samples are typically taken from beneath the tank and the surrounding area, including the buried piping, to detect any fuel leaks.
The cost of cleanup depends on factors such as the extent of contamination and state cleanup standards. While the average cleanup cost is estimated at $154,000, the price can vary significantly. If only a small amount of soil is affected, cleanup costs may be as low as $10,000. However, extensive soil contamination can result in costs exceeding $154,000, and remediation of leaks affecting groundwater can range from $100,000 to over $1 million.
To ensure proper handling and compliance with regulations, it is recommended to hire a professional vendor with experience in leak detection and underground storage tank removal. They can guide you through the process, including soil sampling, and provide the necessary documentation for disposal and cleanup approval.
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Understand the risks
Removing an underground fuel tank can be a dangerous and complicated process. Before starting the removal process, it is important to understand the risks involved.
Underground fuel tanks that are older than 20 years are at significant risk of leaking. Fuel oil is lighter than water, so it will penetrate the soil until it reaches groundwater and then travel on the water surface. This means that a leak can contaminate large areas, depending on the soil composition. If you are purchasing a property with an abandoned underground tank, it is important to perform a thorough site assessment, as many homeowners have bought properties without knowing about the presence of an underground tank.
The removal process can be hazardous, especially if the tank previously contained flammable or combustible liquids, such as petroleum products or flammable gases. There is a risk of explosion if an ignition source is introduced into the area, which can result in serious injuries and damage to surrounding properties. It is important to ensure that the tank is freed of hazardous chemicals and that air monitoring is conducted to check for flammable vapours before commencing work.
In addition, there are environmental risks associated with the removal process. Small amounts of residual material from the tank can be hazardous to the environment, so proper disposal procedures must be followed. Contaminated soil must be properly disposed of and cannot simply be pushed back into the excavation. Access to clean backfill material is necessary to fill the excavation after the tank is removed.
The specific regulations and requirements for underground fuel tank removal vary depending on the state and federal laws. It is important to inform the local and state governments about the tank removal plan, and in some cases, a licensed contractor is required to execute the removal process. The certified remover is responsible for the proper disposal of all waste materials, including excavated material, the tank itself, and any fuel or sludge inside. Failure to comply with the relevant regulations can result in legal consequences.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, but due to the complexity and potential dangers of the process, it is recommended that you hire a professional to do it for you.
Some signs that you may have an underground fuel tank include fuel consumption spikes, dead or dying vegetation in the area, the smell of oil, a strange taste in your water, darker soil in the area, or a rainbow sheen on the water.
The process for removing an underground fuel tank varies depending on your location, but generally includes notifying your local government, removing or cleaning the tank, disposing of any waste, and submitting a closure report.
If your underground fuel tank is leaking, you should call an underground tank testing company right away. They will be able to assess the situation and determine the necessary steps for cleanup and remediation.
Ultimately, the owner of the underground fuel tank is responsible for its removal and ensuring that all proper procedures are followed. However, you can hire a certified remover to handle the process for you.
