Underground Storage Tanks

If a release from an underground storage tank (UST) system is suspected, the owner or operator must report the release to the state or local implementing agency within 24 hours, or another reasonable time period specified by the implementing agency. If the leak takes place in Indian Country, then the EPA’s Regional UST program should be contacted.

Steps should also be taken immediately to stop the release and ensure that there is no threat to the safety of persons in the vicinity of the release.

It is not necessary to notify the implementing agency of aboveground spills or overfills of petroleum of less than 25 gallons (or another reasonable amount specified by the implementing agency) if the release can be contained and cleaned up within 24 hours. It is also not necessary to notify the implementing agency of a spill or overfill of a hazardous substance which results in a release to the environment that is less than its reportable quantity under CERCLA if it can be contained and cleaned up within 24 hours (for more information see 40 CFR 302.5 of CERCLA .)

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