Recent Blog Posts
Types of Testing for Stage II Vapor Recovery Compliance
For gasoline dispensing facilities in New Jersey and other states that previously required Stage II vapor recovery systems, compliance testing has long been a critical component of regulatory adherence. Even though many jurisdictions have phased out Stage II requirements due to widespread adoption of Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR) technology in vehicles, certain facilities… Read More »
NJDEP Jurisdiction Over UST Collateral Components
When people think about underground storage tanks (USTs), they often picture a buried steel vessel holding gasoline or diesel fuel. But those who work in the field know a UST is much more than that, and the government knows it too. Under New Jersey law, the reach of the New Jersey Department of Environmental… Read More »
EPA Regs for Temporary & Permanent Underground Storage Tank Closures
Closing an underground storage tank (UST), whether temporarily or permanently, is not simply a matter of taking the tank out of service and walking away. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established clear requirements in 40 CFR Part 280, Subpart G, governing how owners and operators must handle out-of-service UST systems, including both… Read More »
How Do I Know If My Property Has (or Had) an Underground Storage Tank?
If you’re buying, selling, or simply owning property in New Jersey or Florida, one question you may not immediately think to ask is: Does my land have an underground storage tank (UST)? Hidden tanks are more common than many people realize, and they carry potential environmental and financial liabilities. Here’s how to figure out whether… Read More »
When Does a Home Heating Oil Tank Fall Under NJDEP Regulation?
Heating oil tanks are common across New Jersey, as many single-family homes and older buildings still rely on buried or basement tanks to heat living spaces. Despite their ubiquity, state regulators treat residential heating oil tanks differently from larger commercial underground storage tanks (USTs). That difference can be confusing: are home heating oil tanks… Read More »
FDEP’s Jurisdiction Over Underground Storage Tanks in Florida
When dealing with underground storage tanks in Florida, it’s essential to understand where state oversight (via the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, or FDEP) begins—and ends. FDEP’s regulatory framework builds atop federal UST rules, but also adds Florida-specific standards, procedures, and enforcement authority. In this post, we’ll break down how FDEP regulates USTs, the… Read More »
NJDEP’s Jurisdiction Over Underground Storage Tanks in New Jersey
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) plays a critical role in overseeing the safe installation, operation, and closure of Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) in the state. With both federal and state mandates guiding its authority, the NJDEP ensures that UST systems throughout the Garden State comply with rules designed to protect people,… Read More »
Operator Classes for USTs in New Jersey: Understanding A, B & C Designations
If you own or operate an underground storage tank (UST) in New Jersey, state law requires you to designate dedicated operators in three classes—Class A, B, or C—and ensure they’re properly trained. These roles are mandated under NJ Administrative Code N.J.A.C. 7:14B‑5.14 and are also federally required under 40 CFR Part 280. Below is a breakdown of each class,… Read More »
Legal Requirements for Shoring and Sheeting During Excavation
Excavation work is a routine part of underground storage tank (UST) installation, removal, and servicing. However, digging below the surface introduces serious safety risks, especially when trenches or pits are deep or the surrounding soil is unstable. To protect workers and prevent cave-ins, regulatory agencies have established strict legal requirements regarding shoring, sheeting, and… Read More »
Aboveground vs. Underground Storage Tank: Which Is Better?
When it comes to storing fuel, oil, chemicals, or other hazardous materials, choosing the right type of storage tank is a critical decision. Business owners, property managers, and developers often face the question: should you install an aboveground storage tank (AST) or an underground storage tank (UST)? Each option offers distinct advantages and potential… Read More »