What must owners and operators do if they permanently close their UST system?

When permanently closing a UST system, owners and operators must follow specific regulations to ensure environmental safety and compliance. Leaving the UST in place is not a standard practice; rather, the proper protocol typically involves one of two actions: removal of the tank or proper abandonment in place.

In accordance with regulations, if a tank is to be left in place, it must be appropriately emptied and cleaned, and then filled with an inert material such as sand or foam to prevent collapse. This process helps mitigate risks such as leaks or environmental contamination. The UST must also be documented to reflect its closure in accordance with local environmental agency guidelines.

The other options, like removal from the ground or converting it into a storage area, can sometimes be part of the closure process but are subject to specific regulations and, in many cases, may not be the best practices for legacy tanks. Filling it with soil is not acceptable as it does not properly address the potential issues related to leftover harmful substances in the tank.

Thus, the decision to leave the tank in place is based on regulatory requirements, safety considerations, and the need to prevent future environmental hazards.