NOTICE:
The revised AST Rules became effective on August 1, 2024.
View the revised AST Rules and Visit the AST webpage for more information.
The Storage Tanks Section works to protect human health and the environment by preventing releases of liquid petroleum and hazardous substances (not including propane) from underground storage tank (UST) and aboveground storage tank (AST) systems. The release of regulated products into the environment threatens groundwater resources and can cause explosive vapors to seep into confined spaces and occupied dwellings.
Note: to report a storage tank release, refer to the Spills Management webpage.
USTs
The UST Rules regulate the installation and operation of underground petroleum/chemical storage tanks, and they first came into effect in 1985. The current rules came into effect on October 26, 2020.
Visit the UST webpage for more information on USTs in Vermont.
ASTs
In Vermont, most ASTs are home heating tanks. The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources began regulating ASTs containing petroleum products in 2011, and the current AST Rules came into effect on August 1, 2024.
Visit the AST webpage for more information on ASTs in Vermont.
Financial Assistance
Financial assistance through the Petroleum Cleanup Fund (PCF) may be available to owners of single family residences, including mobile homes, for the removal of either underground or aboveground oil storage tanks that are used solely for on-premises heating.
Visit the Financial Assistance webpage for more information.