In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.
 
Orange County Contact the County Orange County Seal

Environmental Health
1241 East Dyer Road
Suite 120
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Voice (714)433-6000
Fax (714) 433-6423
Map

Underground Storage Tank
Inspection Program

Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA)

 

The Environmental Health Division oversees the Underground Storage Tank Inspection Program in Orange County with the exception of the following cities: Anaheim, Fullerton, Orange and Santa Ana. The purpose of this program is to ensure that hazardous materials stored in underground tanks are not released into the groundwater and/or the environment. Specialists from the County and cities inspect underground storage tanks (USTs), monitoring equipment, and inventory records of UST systems to ensure that the systems comply with applicable laws and regulations.

Underground Storage Tanks—The Basics
A resource for small and medium-sized businesses in Orange County
This manual is intended to provide businesses with the tools necessary to own and operate an underground storage tank system in compliance with the rules and regulations enforced by OCHCA.

UST Owner/Operator Responsibilities

  • Obtain a Permit to Operate a UST system and pay an annual fee to operate USTs used to store hazardous substances.

  • Comply with construction and monitoring requirements for new USTs.

  • Install and operate monitoring systems for existing USTs.

  • Report and cleanup all unauthorized releases from USTs.

  • Ensure that each tank in use meets the 1998 upgrade requirements.

Repair, Removal and Installation of UST's

CUPA staff oversees the installation, repair and removal of USTs through the plan check process. Plan submittal is required for the following activities:

  • New installations

  • Piping repair/upgrade

  • Cathodic protection

  • Bladder insertions

  • Boring for monitoring wells

  • Sump installations

  • Dispenser containment modifications/installations

  • Replacement installation of both leak detection monitoring box and probes

  • Overfill prevention

  • Spill containment

  • Positive shut down device

For specific information regarding Underground Storage Tanks, please contact the Specialist in charge of your area. Click here for a Hazardous Waste Specialist in your area (PDF file) .

Internet Resources

 

Related Links

Alert OC - Register for emergency messages

Watch the Board live