Ameer Randolph
Underground fuel tanks have been used since the 1930s, and over a million are still buried today. Removing one is a serious undertaking that should be handled by a professional. Before removing a tank, you must notify your local government and obtain a construction permit. The removal process is subject to federal, state, and local regulations, and the tank owner or operator is required to follow a specific process for removal. The process typically involves cleaning the tank, disposing of waste materials, and taking soil samples to check for contamination.
Underground Fuel Tank Removal
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Removal Process | Local and state government must be informed 30 days prior to removal. |
| The tank can be transported intact or cut into pieces. | |
| The tank must be cleaned and disposed of at a recycling/scrap metal facility. | |
| Soil samples are collected and analyzed for contamination. | |
| A permanent closure report is constructed and submitted to the DNR within 45 days. | |
| Reasons for Removal | Facility upgrades, tank failure, incompatibility with future products, or the system is no longer storing petroleum. |
| Hazards | A leaking tank can cause fuel consumption spikes, dead/dying vegetation, heating oil odors, contamination of well water, and an oily rainbow sheen on the water. |
| Residual material in the tank can be hazardous to the environment. | |
| Inert tanks are less prone to explosion. | |
| Contaminated soil must be properly disposed of and cannot be pushed back into the excavation. | |
| Some states mandate a licensed contractor to execute the removal process. | |
| Alternatives | If the tank is beneath a building, it can be filled with non-shrinking, solid, inert material instead of being removed. |
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What You'll Learn
Notify local and state government
If you are looking to remove an underground fuel tank, it is important to notify your local and state governments. This is a crucial step in the process, as government regulations and requirements vary from state to state. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate this complex process:
Understanding the Role of Local and State Governments
When it comes to removing underground fuel tanks, both local and state governments play a significant role in regulating and overseeing the process. This involvement is essential to ensure the protection of human health, the environment, and the safety of the community.
Notifying the Government
To start the process, you must inform your local and state governments about your plan to remove the underground fuel tank. This notification should be submitted at least 30 days before the scheduled removal date. However, it's important to note that this timeline may vary slightly depending on your specific state's regulations. Be sure to check with your state agency to confirm the required timeframe.
Providing Detailed Information
When notifying the local and state governments, you will need to provide comprehensive details about your removal plan. This includes information such as the location of the tank, the proposed removal method, and any potential hazards or challenges that may arise during the process. It is important to be as transparent as possible to ensure the government agencies can provide the necessary support and guidance.
Complying with Regulatory Requirements
Each state has its own set of regulatory requirements for underground fuel tank removal. These requirements are designed to safeguard the environment and human health. As such, it is crucial that you understand and comply with the specific regulations in your state. Contact your state agency in charge of oil pollution control activities or refer to their website for detailed information on the applicable requirements and guidelines.
Handling Contaminated Soil
If your underground fuel tank has caused soil contamination, it is essential to manage and dispose of the contaminated soil properly. Some states may require soil samples to be collected before and after the removal process to assess the extent of contamination. Work with certified professionals who can handle and dispose of the contaminated soil in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.
Finalising the Process
Once the underground fuel tank removal is complete, a permanent closure report may be required. This report typically includes sampling data and details of any remaining contamination. Submit this report to the relevant state agency within the specified timeframe, which is usually within 45 days of the tank system closure.
By diligently following these steps and maintaining open communication with your local and state governments, you can ensure that your underground fuel tank removal project complies with all the necessary regulations and protects the environment and the community.
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Hire a certified remover
Removing an underground fuel tank is a complex and potentially dangerous process, so it is important to hire a certified remover to ensure the work is carried out safely and in compliance with state and federal regulations.
The specific requirements for certification vary depending on the state. For example, in Maryland, any individual who removes, installs, upgrades, repairs, or retrofits an underground storage tank (UST) must be certified to do so. The Maryland Department of Environment issues certifications and requires individuals to take an exam to demonstrate their competency. Other states, such as Texas, maintain a list of registered contractors who are qualified to install, repair, maintain, or remove petroleum storage tanks.
To find a certified remover in your state, you can search for registered contractors through your state's environmental or regulatory agency. For example, in Texas, you can use the "Search Licensing or Registration Information" web page provided by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to find registered contractors in your area.
Once you have identified a certified remover, they will be responsible for managing the entire tank removal process, including the proper disposal of all waste materials. This includes excavated material, non-salvageable storage system components, the tank itself, any fuel or sludge in the tank, and the water used to clean the tank. The certified remover will also arrange for the proper disposal or treatment of any contaminated soils resulting from the excavation.
In addition to hiring a certified remover, it is important to follow the specific procedures and notifications required by your state for the removal of underground fuel tanks. This may include providing formal notification to the state regulatory agency a certain number of days before commencing any tank removal activities.
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Dispose of contaminated soil
If you are removing an underground fuel tank, you must follow federal and state guidelines for handling contaminated soil. The process for disposing of contaminated soil will vary depending on the state, and some states collect soil samples after the removal of a tank.
Before removing an underground storage tank (UST), you must notify the local and state government at least 30 days prior to the removal. Some states require a licensed contractor to execute the removal process. During the removal process, you must prevent surface water from entering the site, as it could become contaminated. In this case, you would need to treat it as hazardous waste and dispose of it accordingly. You should also sample the soil and groundwater for subsurface contamination before, during, and after removing the tank. If contamination is found, further investigations and a risk assessment will need to be carried out to identify how to deal with the problem.
The certified remover is responsible for the proper disposal of all waste materials generated during the tank removal process, including excavated material, non-salvageable storage system components, the tank itself, any fuel or sludge in the tank, and the water used to clean the tank. All contaminated soil must be disposed of properly and cannot be pushed back into the excavation. The certified remover will arrange for the contaminated soil to be transported away for proper disposal or treatment.
In some cases, it may be better not to remove the tank, for example, if the tank is beneath a building's foundation, as excavation could harm the building. In this case, contractors would fill the tank with a non-shrinking, solid, inert material such as polyfoam or concrete slurry to keep it in place.
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Understand the risks of not removing
Underground fuel tanks that are not removed can pose significant risks to the environment and human health, as well as financial liabilities for the property owner.
One of the biggest risks associated with leaving an underground fuel tank in place is the potential for leaks and spills. Tanks older than 20 years are at a significantly increased risk of leaking. Over time, the tank and its supply and return piping will corrode, leading to small leaks that can go unnoticed for years but can contaminate the soil, groundwater, and even neighbouring properties or surface waters. Fuel oil, being lighter than water, will penetrate the soil until it reaches groundwater, along which it can travel great distances. Such contamination can result in expensive environmental claims, clean-up costs, and third-party injury and property damage claims.
Another risk arises during the sale or purchase of a property with an abandoned underground fuel tank. Many homeowners have unknowingly purchased properties with such tanks, as they were not commonly disclosed in the past due to a lack of awareness about the environmental hazards they pose. Today, mortgage and insurance companies often require the removal of these tanks before approving loans or insurance. Additionally, if the tank was not properly decommissioned and inspected at the time of removal, there may be concerns about potential leaks, which can complicate real estate transactions and require further investigation.
Furthermore, any work on old tanks and piping is potentially dangerous and should only be carried out by experienced contractors in accordance with safety procedures. There have been incidents where explosions occurred during the removal of underground fuel tanks, resulting in injuries to workers and damage to surrounding properties.
In summary, the risks of not removing an underground fuel tank include environmental contamination, financial liabilities, complications during property transactions, and potential safety hazards during removal. Proper decommissioning, inspection, and replacement of these tanks are crucial to mitigate these risks and ensure the safety of people, property, and the environment.
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Research and get quotes from companies
Removing an underground fuel tank is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. It is recommended to research and obtain quotes from multiple companies that specialise in underground fuel tank removal to ensure you receive the best service and value for your project. Here are some steps to guide you through the process:
- Identify Local Companies: Begin by searching for local companies that offer underground fuel tank removal services. You can use online resources or business directories specific to your region to find reputable companies.
- Research Company Credentials: Before requesting quotes, thoroughly research each company's credentials and expertise. Verify their experience in the industry, the qualifications of their staff, and their understanding of regulatory requirements. Look for companies that are licensed, insured, and have a proven track record of successful projects similar to yours.
- Outline Your Requirements: Prepare a detailed description of your project, including the size and location of the underground fuel tank, any known issues or concerns, and your desired timeline. Having a clear scope of work will help the companies provide more accurate quotes.
- Request Quotes: Contact the shortlisted companies and provide them with the details of your project. Request itemised quotes that outline the costs for each stage of the removal process, including labour, equipment, transportation, waste disposal, and any other relevant expenses. Ask about their specific methodologies, timelines, and how they ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations.
- Compare Quotes and References: Carefully review the quotes you receive, paying attention to the services offered, the cost breakdown, and the companies' proposed timelines. Additionally, check customer references and reviews to assess the quality of their work and their professionalism.
- Finalise the Contract: Once you have selected the most suitable company, finalise the contract details, ensuring that all relevant regulatory procedures, timelines, and costs are clearly outlined and agreed upon by both parties.
By following these steps, you can make an informed decision about choosing the right company for your underground fuel tank removal project, ensuring a safe, compliant, and efficient process.
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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 remove your underground storage tank (UST).
Underground fuel tanks can contain hazardous materials, and a leaking tank can be a major hazard to your health and the environment. For example, petroleum will leach into the surrounding environment if corrosion holes breach the tank shell.
The process for removing an underground fuel tank varies depending on the location. Generally, the certified remover is responsible for the proper disposal of all waste materials 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, and the water used to clean the tank.
The cost of removing an underground fuel tank can vary depending on the size and condition of the tank, as well as the location. It is recommended that you contact multiple companies to get quotes and opinions.
In some cases, it may be better to permanently close the tank rather than remove it. For example, if the tank is beneath a building's foundation, excavation can harm the structure. In this case, contractors can fill the tank with non-shrinking, solid, inert material such as polyfoam or concrete slurry.
