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Underground Storage Tank (UST) Program

The purpose of the UST program is to ensure that hazardous materials stored in underground tanks are not released into the environment.

The Hazardous Materials Surveillance Section of the Environmental Health Division oversees the Underground Storage Tank (UST) Program in most cities in Orange County, with the exception of Anaheim and Orange. Hazardous Materials Specialists inspect underground storage tank systems annually to ensure that UST systems comply with applicable laws and regulations. Inspection staff also oversee the installation, modification, and closure of UST systems.

  • Comply with applicable laws and regulations
  • Pay annual UST fees
  • Monitor UST system and conduct periodic testing
  • Maintain required records
  • Submit UST permitting documents to the California Environmental Reporting System (CERS)
  • Submit Certification of Financial Responsibility to CERS annually
  • Comply with all release recording and reporting requirements

  • Provide notification at least 48 hours prior the testing
  • Submit test results within 30 days of testing
  • Meet licensing and certification requirements at time of testing

  • Conduct site inspections at least once every 30 days
  • Inspect site, identify compliance issues, verify testing is current, train employees
  • Provide copy of report to owner or operator within 48 hours of the inspection

Required prior to conducting any UST installations, removals, or modifications.

Plans are reviewed by a hazardous materials specialist to ensure that UST containment, monitoring, and closure plans meet requirements. One or more inspections may be required to verify that work specified in the plan is complete and components are operational. Plans may be submitted via counter drop-off, mail, and email. Plans will not be processed until payment has been received.

When submitting a plan check, please include the following:

  • Facility Modification Application
  • Plan check fee (drop-off or mail. If email, payment info will be provided)
  • Plans: include site diagram, scope of work, parts list, and compatibility documentation. If drop off or mail submittal, please provide 4 copies of all documents. 
  • Contractor certifications should be provided with the plan check documents. Work may not begin until the required certifications have been verified.