Underground Storage Tank Inspection Program CUPA Participating Agency
The City of Orange Hazardous Materials Section oversees the Underground Storage Tank Inspection Program. The purpose of this program is to ensure that hazardous materials stored in underground tanks are not released into the groundwater and/or the environment. The Hazardous Materials Specialists inspect underground storage tanks (USTs), monitoring equipment, and inventory records of UST systems to ensure that the systems comply with applicable laws and regulations.
UST Owner/Operator Responsibilities
Obtain a Permit to Operate a UST system and pay an annual fee to operate USTs used to store hazardous substances.
Comply with construction and monitoring requirements for new USTs.
Install and operate monitoring systems for existing USTs.
Report and cleanup all unauthorized releases from USTs.
Ensure that each tank in use meets the 1998 upgrade requirements.
Repair, Removal and Installation of USTs
Orange City Hazardous Materials staff oversees the installation, repair and removal of USTs through the plan check process. Plan submittal is required for the following activities:
New installations
Piping repair/upgrade
Cathodic protection
Bladder insertions
Boring for monitoring wells
Sump installations
Dispenser containment modifications/installations
Replacement installation of both leak detection monitoring box and probes
Overfill prevention
Spill containment
Positive shut down device
“Designated UST Operator” means one or more individuals designated by the UST owner to have responsibilities for training facility employees and conducting a monthly visual inspection at the UST facility.
The "designated UST operator" must:
Posses a current “California UST System Operator” certification issued by the International Code Council (ICC) by January 1, 2005. Certification must be renewed every 24 months.
Provide on-the-job training for facility employee(s). Initial training is required by July 1, 2005. Facility employees hired on or after July 1, 2005 must complete initial training within 30 days from their date of hire.
Perform monthly visual inspections and record results on an inspection report, which must be provided to the owner/operator.
Some Helpful Websites Containing Information Pertaining to Underground Storage Tanks
California Health and Safety Code Division 20 Chapter 6.7 Underground Storage Tanks
