Fresno County's UST Program: Your Comprehensive Guide

Fresno County's Underground Storage Tank (UST) Program is a thorough regulatory framework that oversees the safe operation, permitting, and closure of USTs. The program guarantees compliance with federal and state regulations through a structured approach. Operators must obtain a UST permit, implement an approved monitoring plan, and meet financial responsibility requirements. The program includes guidelines for construction, removal, and monitoring, as well as compliance and certification processes. Resources and contact information are available for operators to access guidance and support. By understanding the program's requirements and procedures, operators can ensure safe and compliant UST operation, and discover the benefits of a well-regulated system.

Key Takeaways

• Fresno County's UST Program ensures safe operation by requiring permits, meeting upgrade requirements, and implementing approved UST monitoring plans.
• The program provides guidelines for construction, removal, and closure of USTs, adhering to California UST Regulations and Federal/State Financial Responsibility requirements.
• Rigorous monitoring and inspection procedures, including annual evaluations, detect potential leaks or contamination, and identify issues before they become major problems.
• Operators must demonstrate compliance with program requirements, obtaining a Permit to Operate, and implementing approved UST monitoring plans to reduce hazardous material release risks.
• Resources, including detailed guidelines and annual inspections, are available to support operators, with dedicated contact information for timely assistance.

UST Permit and Closure Requirements

Obtaining a UST permit is a crucial step in guaranteeing the safe operation of underground storage tanks in Fresno County. It involves meeting specific requirements and undergoing regular monitoring to prevent hazardous material releases into the environment.

The permitting process requires submitting an application to the Fresno County Environmental Health Division, paying applicable fees, and meeting current upgrade/construction requirements. Additionally, operators must implement an approved UST monitoring plan on site and meet Federal/State Financial Responsibility requirements.

Closure procedures, including temporary closure permits, must also be followed to ensure a safe and environmentally responsible shutdown. By complying with these regulations, tank owners can prevent environmental hazards and avoid costly penalties.

Permitting and Construction Guidelines

In accordance with Fresno County's UST Program, construction and removal of underground storage tanks are governed by strict guidelines and regulations, which must be adhered to by qualified contractors and tank owners.

The permitting process involves submitting an application to the Fresno County Environmental Health Division, paying applicable fees, and meeting current upgrade and construction requirements. Construction standards must comply with California UST Regulations, Federal/State Financial Responsibility requirements, and approved UST monitoring plans.

Guidelines are available for new construction and closure, with exemptions for farm tanks, heating oil tanks, and others. By adhering to these guidelines, tank owners and contractors can establish a safe and compliant UST system.

Monitoring and Inspection Procedures

Fresno County's UST Program promotes the safe operation of underground storage tanks through a rigorous monitoring and inspection regimen. This involves annual evaluations conducted by HazMat Compliance staff to prevent hazardous material releases into the environment.

These annual inspections guarantee that UST systems are functioning properly and identify potential issues before they become major problems. The monitoring techniques employed by HazMat Compliance staff are tailored to the specific construction of each UST system, ensuring that the most effective methods are used to detect potential leaks or contamination.

Compliance and Certification Process

Through a rigorous certification process, UST system operators must demonstrate adherence to Fresno County's UST Program requirements, guaranteeing the safe operation of their underground storage tanks. The compliance process involves meeting specific certification requirements, including submitting an application to the Fresno County Environmental Health Division, paying applicable fees, and meeting current upgrade and construction requirements in California UST Regulations.

Operators must also implement an approved UST monitoring plan on site and obtain a Permit to Operate, which includes conditions for operation and monitoring. By following these steps, UST system operators can verify they are in compliance with Fresno County's UST Program, reducing the risk of hazardous material release into the environment.

Program Resources and Contact Info

Operators seeking guidance or clarification on Fresno County's UST Program requirements can access a variety of resources and contact the HazMat Compliance Program directly for support.

The program offers detailed guidelines for new construction, closure, and monitoring methods, ensuring operators are well-prepared to meet regulations. Additionally, the HazMat Compliance staff conducts annual inspections to prevent hazardous material releases into the environment.

For any questions or concerns, operators can reach out to the HazMat Compliance Program at (559) 600-3271 or email at HazMatCUPA@fresnocountyca.gov. This dedicated contact information ensures timely assistance, providing operators with the program resources they need to navigate the UST Program successfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Penalty for Non-Compliance With UST Regulations?

Non-compliance with UST regulations can result in severe consequences, including criminal liability and significant financial burden. Failure to adhere to regulations can lead to fines, penalties, and even criminal prosecution.

Additionally, non-compliance can also result in costly corrective actions, site remediation, and potential lawsuits. It is essential for owners and operators to understand and comply with UST regulations to avoid these penalties and protect the environment.

Can I Operate My UST System Without a Permit?

Operating a UST system without a permit is a recipe for disaster, leading to potential system failure and environmental harm. The absence of a permit indicates non-compliance, risking contamination of groundwater and soil.

Even if your system falls under a permit exemption, such as farm tanks or heating oil tanks, it's important to ensure compliance with regulations to avoid costly consequences. Obtaining the necessary permits and adhering to monitoring requirements is essential to prevent hazardous material releases and maintain a safe environment.

How Long Does It Take to Process a UST Permit Application?

The permit timeline for processing a UST permit application can vary depending on the application backlog. Typically, the review process takes several weeks to a few months, contingent upon the completeness and accuracy of the submitted application.

It is crucial to make sure all required documents and fees are included to avoid delays. The Environmental Health Division aims to process applications efficiently, but unexpected backlogs can occur, affecting the overall permit timeline.

Do I Need to Notify the County When I Sell My UST System?

Did you know that the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that there are over 550,000 underground storage tanks (USTs) in operation across the country?

When selling a UST system, it is important for the seller to notify the county to guarantee a smooth property transfer. As part of their obligations, sellers must inform the Fresno County Environmental Health Division in writing, providing details of the transfer, including the buyer's information and the UST system's status.

This notification is essential to maintain compliance and avoid potential liabilities.

Can I Use My Own Monitoring Plan or Must I Use an Approved One?

When it comes to implementing a monitoring plan for your Underground Storage Tank (UST) system, the question arises: can you use a customized approach or must you adhere to an approved plan?

The answer lies in the regulations. While a site-specific solution may be desirable, it's important to make sure that your monitoring plan meets the requirements outlined in the California UST Regulations and Federal/State Financial Responsibility guidelines.

An approved plan guarantees compliance and prevents hazardous material release into the environment.