Underground Storage Tanks

EPA is providing answers to the following questions. These questions and answers are not intended to be a substitute for the written underground storage tank regulations. For a complete description of the regulations, refer to the Code of Federal Regulations, 40 CFR Part 280. In addition, you can find additional answers to technical questions in the UST Technical Compendium. Also, Program Facts presents a brief overview about the UST program and some basic facts that are updated periodically.

General:

• What Is An Underground Storage Tank (UST) System?
• What Is The History Of The Federal Underground Storage Tank Program?
• Who Can Answer Questions About UST Systems?
• Why Are UST Systems Regulated?
• Who Regulates UST Systems?
• Are Heating Oil Tanks Regulated?
• What Are The Requirements For Hazardous Substance USTs?
• Are Aboveground Storage Tanks A Way To Avoid Regulation?
• How Many UST Systems Have Leaked? How Many Have Been Cleaned Up?
• Where Can I Get More Information?

Prevention:

• What Are The Responsibilities Of An UST Owner Or Operator?
• What Are My Reporting Responsibilities As An Owner Or Operator?
• What Records Must I Keep?
• How Can I Choose A Leak Detection Method And Make Sure It Works?
• Can Leaking Tanks Be Repaired?

Cleanup:

• What Are The Responsibilities Of An UST Owner Or Operator?
• What Are My Reporting Responsibilities As An Owner Or Operator?
• How Can I Tell If A Release Has Occurred?
• How Do I Report A Release From An UST System?
• What Do I Do About UST Releases?
• How Do You Close Tanks?
• How Many UST Systems Have Leaked? How Many Have Been Cleaned Up?
• How Much Do Cleanups Cost?

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