The purpose of this program is to protect the waters of the state (surface and groundwater) from exposure to (petroleum-based) oils stored in aboveground storage tanks by confirming compliance, for specified facilities, with the federal Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) rule. This is accomplished through routine, periodic, and complaint inspections, surveillance, enforcement, public education, and assistance to industry. APSA requires facilities that store more than 1,320 gallons of petroleum to prepare and implement an SPCC plan in accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 40 Part 112.
Although the EHD does not require permits for aboveground storage tank installation, modification, or testing, there may be installation or modification permitting requirements with the local fire, building, and planning departments. Once aboveground storage tanks are installed, a complete and adequate submittal will be required with the California Environmental Reporting System (https://cers.calepa.ca.gov/). If you have questions about permitting or wish to know more about the program and associated program fees, please visit the website for the Office of the State Fire Marshal, or contact the San Joaquin County Environmental Health Department (EHD) at (209) 468-3420 or for more information visit our website at https://www.sjgov.org/department/envhealth/home.
If your business is no longer storing petroleum or petroleum products, contact EHD at (209) 468-3420 to schedule a closure inspection and inactivate the facility permit(s).
Authority
California Health and Safety Code Sections 25270 – 25270.13