FAQs

What regulations apply to my home heating oil tank?
All underground home heating oil tanks are exempt from the Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ’s) State and federal Underground Storage Tank (UST) Technical Regulations. Aboveground home heating oil tanks less than or equal to 5,000 gallons capacity are exempt from the DEQ’s Pollution Prevention requirements. Discharges of oil are prohibited by Article 11 of State Water Control Law and must be reported to DEQ immediately. Always check local building/fire codes and ordinances to see if any apply to your heating oil tank.

What do I do with a home heating oil tank that is no longer being used?
Potential buyers are sometimes reluctant to purchase property with abandoned or improperly closed home heating oil tanks; therefore, closure may prove beneficial. More recently, insurance companies are requiring proper abandonment of home heating oil tanks prior to writing homeowner’s policies.   An added benefit of removal is the elimination of a potential threat to the property and environment.

If I choose to remove my home heating oil tank, what are the requirements?
The removal of a home heating oil UST is considered a demolition activity and as such may be subject to inspection by local building officials.  The DEQ recommends homeowners hire a licensed consultant familiar with proper UST closure procedures.  The DEQ need not be involved unless signs of a leak, spill, or contamination are observed.

What do I do if I discover evidence of a leak?
If you discover signs of a leak or spillage such as stains on the soil, strong petroleum odors, distressed vegetation; please contact Greene Environmental immediately.  Greene Environmental will assist you in following the appropriate procedures to minimize any impact from the leak and in reporting the release to the DEQ.

Contact Greene Environmental Services with any additional questions.