Aboveground Petroleum Storage Tanks | South Carolina Department of Environmental Services

Although the SC Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) does not regulate aboveground storage tank (AST) systems, this information is provided for AST system owners to minimize any adverse impacts they may have on the environment and prevent potential petroleum releases. This information, however, does not replace any existing applicable laws or regulations. Guidelines and requirements from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other nationally recognized publications also are available at https://www.epa.gov/ust/aboveground-storage-tanks. Federal Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures (SPCC) requirements must be followed as appropriate.

AST Owner Responsibilities

The cleanup of environmental spills or releases from AST systems are the responsibility of the AST system owner and/or property owner where the system is located. If you have or suspect a release, you should contact SCDES to minimize adverse impacts to the environment. For questions or additional information about this publication, please call SCDES at (803) 898-2544 or (803) 898-0589.

What causes AST system failures?

Petroleum releases from AST systems are often a result of:

Improper installation
Foundation/structural failure
Containment wall deterioration
Corrosion
Inadequate protection from accidents and collisions with vehicles
Vandalism
Spills
Poor maintenance
Hazardous weather and flooding
Improper or emergency venting
Fire exposure
Overfills during delivery of fuel

AST Maintenance Guidelines & Precautions

To avoid these problems, remember these guidelines:

Routine maintenance for AST systems is essential to preventing releases.
Precautionary measures should be taken during deliveries to avoid releases and reduce fire
hazards.
Periodic inspection of overfill devices should be performed to ensure proper function and
operation.

Immediate attention may be needed if routine maintenance indicates the following:

Equipment or fittings are rusted, broken or contain peeling paint.
Tank supports or walls are failing, bulging or buckling.
A potential fuel leak is suspected due to hanging drips, a strong fuel odor at times other
than delivery or a sheen on water around or near the tank(s).
Stained soils, dead vegetation or dead animals are visible around or near the tank(s).

In addition to routine testing, periodic inspections are recommended especially during deliveries and dispensing of fuel to ensure releases do not occur.