What is an Underground Storage Tank?
An underground storage tank (UST) is defined in California Health and Safety Code as "any tank and its associated piping (located substantially or totally underground) which is used for the storage of hazardous substances."
Program Overview
The CUPA provides regulatory oversight for the operation of UST systems including:
- Permit issuance
- Routine inspections of ongoing site operations
- Review and approval of construction, repair, upgrade and removal applications
- Inspections of construction, repair, upgrade and removal activities
Underground Storage Tank systems are required to be reported in the California Environmental Reporting System (CERS) and updated annually as part of a facility Hazardous Materials Business Plan (HMBP).