Underground Storage Tank (UST) Program

Leak Prevention Frequently Asked Questions

  1. When performing post-installation enhanced leak detection (ELD), using the Enhanced Tracer Tight® test method, what portions of the underground storage tank (UST) system need to be inoculated?
  2. If an underground storage tank (UST) component (e.g., piping, tank, or under-dispenser containment) is continuously monitored using a vacuum, pressure, or hydrostatic (VPH) method, is the component exempt from secondary containment testing?
  3. Who can serve as a “Designated UST Operator”?
  4. What tasks is a Designated UST Operator required to perform?
  5. How many UST facilities can an individual be the Designated UST Operator for?
  6. Are sumps and under-dispenser containment (UDC) (i.e., non-integral secondary containment) required to be approved by an independent testing organization or a California registered professional engineer (P.E.)?
  7. If an overfill alarm is triggered when a delivery person is filling my tank, is this, in itself, a violation?
  8. Who is a “facility employee” and therefore needs to be trained? Who provides the “facility employee” training? What tasks is a “facility employee” required to perform? How is the “facility employee” training requirement implemented at an underground storage tank (UST) facility that is not routinely staffed (“unmanned”)?
  9. Why is UST inspector certification required?
  10. How does the UST inspector certification requirement apply to new inspectors?
  11. How can the required UST inspector certification be renewed?
  12. Are monthly Designated UST Operator inspections required when a UST facility is in temporary closure?
  13. Are spill containers required to be approved by an independent testing organization or have affirmative statements of compatibility?
  14. When can an underground storage tank be relined and how many times?
  15. Are Unified Program Agencies (UPAs) required to document that an underground storage tank (UST) owner/operator has demonstrated to the satisfaction of the UPA that a UST system has been properly closed by removal or closure-in-place?
  16. Is the low-level containment sump testing an acceptable method of secondary containment testing?


If you have a suggestion for Frequently Asked Questions, please contact Annalisa Kihara by email at: Annalisa.Kihara@waterboards.ca.gov.