WILL THE STATE HELP PAY FOR MY TANK REMOVAL?

Will the State help pay for my tank removal? This is a common question, and the answer is no. The Oklahoma Petroleum Storage Tank Indemnity Fund, managed by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission’s Petroleum Storage Tank Division (OCC PSTD), covers costs related to petroleum storage tank releases and corrective actions. Corrective actions involve identifying, containing, and remediating contamination caused by petroleum product releases. Oklahoma’s specific guidelines for corrective actions can be found in Title 165, Chapter 29 of state regulations.

In rare cases, during a tank removal, if the backfill is heavily contaminated and poses a threat to human health or the environment, OCC PSTD may determine that it must be removed. If disposal is required, expenses related to the removal and disposal of contaminated backfill and tankpit water may be reimbursable through the Fund—but only with written or documented verbal pre-approval from PSTD Technical staff. Reimbursement does not apply to new tank installations.

Rules governing backfill material at closure or service changes are outlined in

Chapter 29, Section 165:29-3-65 on the OCC website.

Additionally, the OCC Oil and Gas Division administers a Brownfield Program, which may assist with underground petroleum storage tank removals when no viable responsible parties can be identified. The program is funded by grants, and applications can be submitted through the OCC Brownfields Department.