New York DEC Compliance Requirements: Complete Guide for Fuel Stations
Tank Registration and Permitting Requirements
Every underground storage tank (UST) in New York State must be registered with the DEC. This registration creates your facility's compliance record and establishes your testing deadlines.
Initial Registration Requirements
New Tank Installation:
When installing new underground storage tanks in New York, you must complete registration before placing tanks in service. Required registration information includes:
- Facility name, address, and owner information
- Tank identification numbers and specifications
- Tank capacity, construction materials, and age
- Product stored in each tank
- Leak detection system type and installation date
- Piping system specifications
- Overfill prevention device information
- Spill containment equipment details
- Installer certification and documentation
- Expected service commencement date
Registration must be submitted at least 30 days before placing tanks in service. Operating unregistered tanks is an automatic violation with significant penalties.
Existing Tank Registration:
If you've acquired a facility with existing tanks, you must transfer registration within 30 days of ownership change. Required documentation includes:
- Current tank registration numbers
- Bill of sale or ownership transfer documents
- Updated facility contact information
- Verification of all equipment remains as registered
- Updated financial responsibility documentation
- Confirmation of operator training for new owner/operators
Failing to transfer registration leaves you liable for previous owner violations and creates gapsin your compliance record.
Tank Closure and Removal Registration
When permanently closing or removing tanks, New York requires specific notifications and procedures:
Temporary Closure (Up to 12 months):
- Written notification to DEC within 30 days of closure
- Continued leak detection monitoring required
- All safety equipment must remain functional
- Extension permits required if closure exceeds 12 months
Permanent Closure:
- Advance notification to DEC required
- Closure assessment performed by certified professional
- Soil and groundwater sampling may be required
- Tank removal or in-place closure per DEC standards
- Final closure report submitted within 30 days
- Tank registration officially closed with DEC
Many station owners don't realize temporary closures still require monitoring and documentation. Assuming closed tanks are "out of compliance" creates violations that accumulate daily.
Annual Registration Renewal
New York requires annual registration renewal for all active UST facilities. This renewal process:
- Occurs annually on your facility's registration anniversary date
- Requires updated facility and operator information
- Confirms leak detection systems remain operational
- Verifies operator training remains current
- Includes registration renewal fee payment
- Updates any equipment modifications or changes
Missed renewal deadlines constitute violations and can result in registration suspension, preventing legal operation of your facility.
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Annual Testing Requirements
New York's annual testing requirements are comprehensive and strictly enforced. These testsverify your tank systems aren't leaking and all safety equipment functions properly.
Tank Tightness Testing
Requirement: Every underground storage tank in New York must undergo annual precision leak testing.
Testing Standards:
- Must detect leaks of 0.1 gallons per hour or less
- Performed by DEC-certified testing professionals
- Using calibrated equipment with current certification
- Following approved testing methodologies
- With temperature compensation calculations
- Producing documentation acceptable to DEC
Testing Process Timeline:
- Testing scheduled 60-90 days before compliance deadline
- Typically requires 3-4 hours per tank
- Tanks must contain adequate product volume for testing
- Weather conditions must be appropriate for accurate results
- Results documented and submitted within 30 days
What Happens If Tanks Fail:
Failed tightness tests trigger immediate reporting requirements and corrective actionobligations
1. Within 24 hours: Notify DEC of test failure
2. Within 48 hours: Begin investigation to locate leak source
3. Within 7 days: Submit corrective action plan to DEC
4. Within 30 days: Complete repairs and retest (timeline varies by severity)
5. Immediate: Implement product delivery restrictions if necessary
The cost of addressing a failed test ($5,000-$50,000 depending on issue) is far less than thecost of ignoring leaks until environmental contamination occurs ($100,000-$1,000,000+).
Line Tightness Testing
Requirement: All piping systems conveying petroleum products must be tested annually forleaks.
Pressurized Piping Systems:
Lines under pressure require annual tightness testing at 150% of normal operating pressure.
Suction Piping Systems:
Suction systems must be tested annually using approved methods appropriate for negativepressure systems. While suction systems pose lower leak risk, NYS DEC still requires annualverification.
Common Line Testing Issues:
- Flexible piping develops leaks more frequently than rigid piping
- Dispenser connections are common failure points
- Transition fittings between different pipe materials often leak
- Corrosion at pipe joints causes slow leaks
- Improperly backfilled lines settle and develop stress cracks
Many station owners only discover line problems during annual testing. By then, product mayhave been leaking for months. This is why annual testing is critical - it catches problems beforethey become environmental disasters.
Overfill Prevention Device Testing
Requirement: Overfill prevention equipment must be tested annually to ensure tanks cannotbe overfilled during product delivery.
Required Tests:
- Automatic shutoff device functionality
- Overfill alarm system operation
- Ball float valve operation (if applicable)
- High-level alarm testing
- Delivery driver notification systems
Overfill incidents are among the most common causes of petroleum releases. Working overfillprevention is your first line of defense against these preventable spills.
Spill Container Testing
Requirement: Spill containment buckets around fill pipes must be tested annually forliquid-tightness.
Testing Method:
- Visual inspection for cracks or damage
- Liquid tightness testing with water or approved test liquid
- Drain valve operation and sealing verification
- Attachment integrity to tank top
- Capacity verification (typically 5 gallons minimum)
Damaged spill containers allow product to reach soil during deliveries. Even small repeatedreleases during deliveries can cause significant soil contamination over time.
Leak Detection System Requirements
New York requires continuous leak detection monitoring for all underground storage tanks.Simply having leak detection equipment isn't enough - it must be operational, properlymaintained, and monitored regularly.
Approved Leak Detection Methods
NYS DEC accepts several leak detection methods, but all must meet specific performancestandards:
Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG):
Most common method in New York. Requirements include:
- Capable of detecting 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate
- Testing inventory at least every 30 days
- Providing continuous overfill prevention
- Maintaining records of all tests and alarms
- Calibrated annually by certified technician
Interstitial Monitoring:
For double-wall tanks and piping. Requirements include:
- Continuous monitoring of interstitial space
- Immediate alarm upon detection of product in interstitial space
- Monthly testing of sensor functionality
- Annual certification of system operation
- Response procedures for alarm conditions
Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR):
Sophisticated method analyzing inventory data. Requirements include:
- Daily inventory measurements at consistent times
- Temperature compensation for volume changes
- 30-day data collection period minimum
- Statistical analysis by approved provider
- Monthly reporting of reconciliation results
Manual Tank Gauging:
Rarely approved in New York except for small tanks (<1,000 gallons). Requirements include:
- Weekly measurements using calibrated stick
- Precise measurement to 1/8 inch
- Temperature measurements for volume compensation
- Detailed written records of all measurements
- Statistical analysis of measurement trends
Monthly Monitoring Requirements
Having leak detection equipment isn't sufficient - you must actively monitor it:
Daily Requirements:
- Check automatic tank gauge for alarms
- Review any unusual inventory variances
- Investigate any leak detection system warnings
- Document any operational issues
- Respond immediately to any alarm conditions
Monthly Requirements:
- Review 30 days of inventory reconciliation data
- Verify all leak detection tests completed
- Check sensor functionality
- Review and print any system reports
- Document monitoring activities in compliance log
Annual Requirements:
- Complete leak detection system certification testing
- Calibrate automatic tank gauges
- Test all sensors and alarms
- Review and update monitoring procedures
- Submit annual monitoring summary to DEC if required
Leak Detection System Maintenance
Leak detection systems require regular maintenance to remain reliable:
Quarterly Maintenance:
- Clean probes and sensors
- Check communication connections
- Verify power supply operation
- Test backup battery systems
- Inspect wiring and connections
Anual Maintenance:
- Professional calibration and certification
- Sensor replacement as needed
- Software updates and patches
- System performance evaluation
- Documentation review and update
Many leak detection failures occur because of lack of maintenance rather than equipment failure. A $500 annual maintenance program prevents $50,000+ in undetected leak costs.
Responding to Leak Detection Alarms
When leak detection systems alarm, New York requires immediate response:
Within 1 Hour:
- Investigate cause of alarm
- Check for obvious releases or spills
- Verify alarm is not due to system malfunction
- Document initial investigation findings
Within 24 Hours:
- If leak suspected, notify DEC
- Begin detailed investigation to locate source
- Implement temporary measures to prevent further release
- Contact emergency response contractor if needed
Within 7 Days:
- Complete investigation and identify problem
- Submit findings and corrective action plan to DEC
- Begin repairs or remediation as approved
- Implement enhanced monitoring if necessary
Ignoring leak detection alarms is not only a violation - it's an invitation to environmental One station owner ignored alarms for six months, resulting in a $750,000 cleanup bill criminal charges
Operator Training Requirements
New York requires continuous leak detection monitoring for all underground storage tanks.Simply having leak detection equipment isn't enough - it must be operational, properlymaintained, and monitored regularly.
Approved Leak Detection Methods
NYS DEC accepts several leak detection methods, but all must meet specific performancestandards:
Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG):
Most common method in New York. Requirements include:
- Capable of detecting 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate
- Testing inventory at least every 30 days
- Providing continuous overfill prevention
- Maintaining records of all tests and alarms
- Calibrated annually by certified technician
Interstitial Monitoring:
For double-wall tanks and piping. Requirements include:
- Continuous monitoring of interstitial space
- Immediate alarm upon detection of product in interstitial space
- Monthly testing of sensor functionality
- Annual certification of system operation
- Response procedures for alarm conditions
Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR):
Sophisticated method analyzing inventory data. Requirements include:
- Daily inventory measurements at consistent times
- Temperature compensation for volume changes
- 30-day data collection period minimum
- Statistical analysis by approved provider
- Monthly reporting of reconciliation results
Manual Tank Gauging:
Rarely approved in New York except for small tanks (<1,000 gallons). Requirements include:
- Weekly measurements using calibrated stick
- Precise measurement to 1/8 inch
- Temperature measurements for volume compensation
- Detailed written records of all measurements
- Statistical analysis of measurement trends
Monthly Monitoring Requirements
Having leak detection equipment isn't sufficient - you must actively monitor it:
Daily Requirements:
- Check automatic tank gauge for alarms
- Review any unusual inventory variances
- Investigate any leak detection system warnings
- Document any operational issues
- Respond immediately to any alarm conditions
Monthly Requirements:
- Review 30 days of inventory reconciliation data
- Verify all leak detection tests completed
- Check sensor functionality
- Review and print any system reports
- Document monitoring activities in compliance log
Annual Requirements:
- Complete leak detection system certification testing
- Calibrate automatic tank gauges
- Test all sensors and alarms
- Review and update monitoring procedures
- Submit annual monitoring summary to DEC if required
Leak Detection System Maintenance
Leak detection systems require regular maintenance to remain reliable:
Quarterly Maintenance:
- Clean probes and sensors
- Check communication connections
- Verify power supply operation
- Test backup battery systems
- Inspect wiring and connections
Anual Maintenance:
- Professional calibration and certification
- Sensor replacement as needed
- Software updates and patches
- System performance evaluation
- Documentation review and update
Many leak detection failures occur because of lack of maintenance rather than equipment failure. A $500 annual maintenance program prevents $50,000+ in undetected leak costs.
Responding to Leak Detection Alarms
When leak detection systems alarm, New York requires immediate response:
Within 1 Hour:
- Investigate cause of alarm
- Check for obvious releases or spills
- Verify alarm is not due to system malfunction
- Document initial investigation findings
Within 24 Hours:
- If leak suspected, notify DEC
- Begin detailed investigation to locate source
- Implement temporary measures to prevent further release
- Contact emergency response contractor if needed
Within 7 Days:
- Complete investigation and identify problem
- Submit findings and corrective action plan to DEC
- Begin repairs or remediation as approved
- Implement enhanced monitoring if necessary
Ignoring leak detection alarms is not only a violation - it's an invitation to environmental One station owner ignored alarms for six months, resulting in a $750,000 cleanup bill criminal charges
Record Keeping and Documentation
New York requires continuous leak detection monitoring for all underground storage tanks.Simply having leak detection equipment isn't enough - it must be operational, properlymaintained, and monitored regularly.
Approved Leak Detection Methods
NYS DEC accepts several leak detection methods, but all must meet specific performancestandards:
Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG):
Most common method in New York. Requirements include:
- Capable of detecting 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate
- Testing inventory at least every 30 days
- Providing continuous overfill prevention
- Maintaining records of all tests and alarms
- Calibrated annually by certified technician
Interstitial Monitoring:
For double-wall tanks and piping. Requirements include:
- Continuous monitoring of interstitial space
- Immediate alarm upon detection of product in interstitial space
- Monthly testing of sensor functionality
- Annual certification of system operation
- Response procedures for alarm conditions
Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR):
Sophisticated method analyzing inventory data. Requirements include:
- Daily inventory measurements at consistent times
- Temperature compensation for volume changes
- 30-day data collection period minimum
- Statistical analysis by approved provider
- Monthly reporting of reconciliation results
Manual Tank Gauging:
Rarely approved in New York except for small tanks (<1,000 gallons). Requirements include:
- Weekly measurements using calibrated stick
- Precise measurement to 1/8 inch
- Temperature measurements for volume compensation
- Detailed written records of all measurements
- Statistical analysis of measurement trends
Monthly Monitoring Requirements
Having leak detection equipment isn't sufficient - you must actively monitor it:
Daily Requirements:
- Check automatic tank gauge for alarms
- Review any unusual inventory variances
- Investigate any leak detection system warnings
- Document any operational issues
- Respond immediately to any alarm conditions
Monthly Requirements:
- Review 30 days of inventory reconciliation data
- Verify all leak detection tests completed
- Check sensor functionality
- Review and print any system reports
- Document monitoring activities in compliance log
Annual Requirements:
- Complete leak detection system certification testing
- Calibrate automatic tank gauges
- Test all sensors and alarms
- Review and update monitoring procedures
- Submit annual monitoring summary to DEC if required
Leak Detection System Maintenance
Leak detection systems require regular maintenance to remain reliable:
Quarterly Maintenance:
- Clean probes and sensors
- Check communication connections
- Verify power supply operation
- Test backup battery systems
- Inspect wiring and connections
Anual Maintenance:
- Professional calibration and certification
- Sensor replacement as needed
- Software updates and patches
- System performance evaluation
- Documentation review and update
Many leak detection failures occur because of lack of maintenance rather than equipment failure. A $500 annual maintenance program prevents $50,000+ in undetected leak costs.
Responding to Leak Detection Alarms
When leak detection systems alarm, New York requires immediate response:
Within 1 Hour:
- Investigate cause of alarm
- Check for obvious releases or spills
- Verify alarm is not due to system malfunction
- Document initial investigation findings
Within 24 Hours:
- If leak suspected, notify DEC
- Begin detailed investigation to locate source
- Implement temporary measures to prevent further release
- Contact emergency response contractor if needed
Within 7 Days:
- Complete investigation and identify problem
- Submit findings and corrective action plan to DEC
- Begin repairs or remediation as approved
- Implement enhanced monitoring if necessary
Ignoring leak detection alarms is not only a violation - it's an invitation to environmental One station owner ignored alarms for six months, resulting in a $750,000 cleanup bill criminal charges
Spill Prevention Requirements
New York requires continuous leak detection monitoring for all underground storage tanks.Simply having leak detection equipment isn't enough - it must be operational, properlymaintained, and monitored regularly.
Approved Leak Detection Methods
NYS DEC accepts several leak detection methods, but all must meet specific performancestandards:
Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG):
Most common method in New York. Requirements include:
- Capable of detecting 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate
- Testing inventory at least every 30 days
- Providing continuous overfill prevention
- Maintaining records of all tests and alarms
- Calibrated annually by certified technician
Interstitial Monitoring:
For double-wall tanks and piping. Requirements include:
- Continuous monitoring of interstitial space
- Immediate alarm upon detection of product in interstitial space
- Monthly testing of sensor functionality
- Annual certification of system operation
- Response procedures for alarm conditions
Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR):
Sophisticated method analyzing inventory data. Requirements include:
- Daily inventory measurements at consistent times
- Temperature compensation for volume changes
- 30-day data collection period minimum
- Statistical analysis by approved provider
- Monthly reporting of reconciliation results
Manual Tank Gauging:
Rarely approved in New York except for small tanks (<1,000 gallons). Requirements include:
- Weekly measurements using calibrated stick
- Precise measurement to 1/8 inch
- Temperature measurements for volume compensation
- Detailed written records of all measurements
- Statistical analysis of measurement trends
Monthly Monitoring Requirements
Having leak detection equipment isn't sufficient - you must actively monitor it:
Daily Requirements:
- Check automatic tank gauge for alarms
- Review any unusual inventory variances
- Investigate any leak detection system warnings
- Document any operational issues
- Respond immediately to any alarm conditions
Monthly Requirements:
- Review 30 days of inventory reconciliation data
- Verify all leak detection tests completed
- Check sensor functionality
- Review and print any system reports
- Document monitoring activities in compliance log
Annual Requirements:
- Complete leak detection system certification testing
- Calibrate automatic tank gauges
- Test all sensors and alarms
- Review and update monitoring procedures
- Submit annual monitoring summary to DEC if required
Leak Detection System Maintenance
Leak detection systems require regular maintenance to remain reliable:
Quarterly Maintenance:
- Clean probes and sensors
- Check communication connections
- Verify power supply operation
- Test backup battery systems
- Inspect wiring and connections
Anual Maintenance:
- Professional calibration and certification
- Sensor replacement as needed
- Software updates and patches
- System performance evaluation
- Documentation review and update
Many leak detection failures occur because of lack of maintenance rather than equipment failure. A $500 annual maintenance program prevents $50,000+ in undetected leak costs.
Responding to Leak Detection Alarms
When leak detection systems alarm, New York requires immediate response:
Within 1 Hour:
- Investigate cause of alarm
- Check for obvious releases or spills
- Verify alarm is not due to system malfunction
- Document initial investigation findings
Within 24 Hours:
- If leak suspected, notify DEC
- Begin detailed investigation to locate source
- Implement temporary measures to prevent further release
- Contact emergency response contractor if needed
Within 7 Days:
- Complete investigation and identify problem
- Submit findings and corrective action plan to DEC
- Begin repairs or remediation as approved
- Implement enhanced monitoring if necessary
Ignoring leak detection alarms is not only a violation - it's an invitation to environmental One station owner ignored alarms for six months, resulting in a $750,000 cleanup bill criminal charges
Financial Responsibility Requirements
New York requires continuous leak detection monitoring for all underground storage tanks.Simply having leak detection equipment isn't enough - it must be operational, properlymaintained, and monitored regularly.
Approved Leak Detection Methods
NYS DEC accepts several leak detection methods, but all must meet specific performancestandards:
Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG):
Most common method in New York. Requirements include:
- Capable of detecting 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate
- Testing inventory at least every 30 days
- Providing continuous overfill prevention
- Maintaining records of all tests and alarms
- Calibrated annually by certified technician
Interstitial Monitoring:
For double-wall tanks and piping. Requirements include:
- Continuous monitoring of interstitial space
- Immediate alarm upon detection of product in interstitial space
- Monthly testing of sensor functionality
- Annual certification of system operation
- Response procedures for alarm conditions
Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR):
Sophisticated method analyzing inventory data. Requirements include:
- Daily inventory measurements at consistent times
- Temperature compensation for volume changes
- 30-day data collection period minimum
- Statistical analysis by approved provider
- Monthly reporting of reconciliation results
Manual Tank Gauging:
Rarely approved in New York except for small tanks (<1,000 gallons). Requirements include:
- Weekly measurements using calibrated stick
- Precise measurement to 1/8 inch
- Temperature measurements for volume compensation
- Detailed written records of all measurements
- Statistical analysis of measurement trends
Monthly Monitoring Requirements
Having leak detection equipment isn't sufficient - you must actively monitor it:
Daily Requirements:
- Check automatic tank gauge for alarms
- Review any unusual inventory variances
- Investigate any leak detection system warnings
- Document any operational issues
- Respond immediately to any alarm conditions
Monthly Requirements:
- Review 30 days of inventory reconciliation data
- Verify all leak detection tests completed
- Check sensor functionality
- Review and print any system reports
- Document monitoring activities in compliance log
Annual Requirements:
- Complete leak detection system certification testing
- Calibrate automatic tank gauges
- Test all sensors and alarms
- Review and update monitoring procedures
- Submit annual monitoring summary to DEC if required
Leak Detection System Maintenance
Leak detection systems require regular maintenance to remain reliable:
Quarterly Maintenance:
- Clean probes and sensors
- Check communication connections
- Verify power supply operation
- Test backup battery systems
- Inspect wiring and connections
Anual Maintenance:
- Professional calibration and certification
- Sensor replacement as needed
- Software updates and patches
- System performance evaluation
- Documentation review and update
Many leak detection failures occur because of lack of maintenance rather than equipment failure. A $500 annual maintenance program prevents $50,000+ in undetected leak costs.
Responding to Leak Detection Alarms
When leak detection systems alarm, New York requires immediate response:
Within 1 Hour:
- Investigate cause of alarm
- Check for obvious releases or spills
- Verify alarm is not due to system malfunction
- Document initial investigation findings
Within 24 Hours:
- If leak suspected, notify DEC
- Begin detailed investigation to locate source
- Implement temporary measures to prevent further release
- Contact emergency response contractor if needed
Within 7 Days:
- Complete investigation and identify problem
- Submit findings and corrective action plan to DEC
- Begin repairs or remediation as approved
- Implement enhanced monitoring if necessary
Ignoring leak detection alarms is not only a violation - it's an invitation to environmental One station owner ignored alarms for six months, resulting in a $750,000 cleanup bill criminal charges
Compliance Calendar and Deadlines
New York requires continuous leak detection monitoring for all underground storage tanks.Simply having leak detection equipment isn't enough - it must be operational, properlymaintained, and monitored regularly.
Approved Leak Detection Methods
NYS DEC accepts several leak detection methods, but all must meet specific performancestandards:
Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG):
Most common method in New York. Requirements include:
- Capable of detecting 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate
- Testing inventory at least every 30 days
- Providing continuous overfill prevention
- Maintaining records of all tests and alarms
- Calibrated annually by certified technician
Interstitial Monitoring:
For double-wall tanks and piping. Requirements include:
- Continuous monitoring of interstitial space
- Immediate alarm upon detection of product in interstitial space
- Monthly testing of sensor functionality
- Annual certification of system operation
- Response procedures for alarm conditions
Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR):
Sophisticated method analyzing inventory data. Requirements include:
- Daily inventory measurements at consistent times
- Temperature compensation for volume changes
- 30-day data collection period minimum
- Statistical analysis by approved provider
- Monthly reporting of reconciliation results
Manual Tank Gauging:
Rarely approved in New York except for small tanks (<1,000 gallons). Requirements include:
- Weekly measurements using calibrated stick
- Precise measurement to 1/8 inch
- Temperature measurements for volume compensation
- Detailed written records of all measurements
- Statistical analysis of measurement trends
Monthly Monitoring Requirements
Having leak detection equipment isn't sufficient - you must actively monitor it:
Daily Requirements:
- Check automatic tank gauge for alarms
- Review any unusual inventory variances
- Investigate any leak detection system warnings
- Document any operational issues
- Respond immediately to any alarm conditions
Monthly Requirements:
- Review 30 days of inventory reconciliation data
- Verify all leak detection tests completed
- Check sensor functionality
- Review and print any system reports
- Document monitoring activities in compliance log
Annual Requirements:
- Complete leak detection system certification testing
- Calibrate automatic tank gauges
- Test all sensors and alarms
- Review and update monitoring procedures
- Submit annual monitoring summary to DEC if required
Leak Detection System Maintenance
Leak detection systems require regular maintenance to remain reliable:
Quarterly Maintenance:
- Clean probes and sensors
- Check communication connections
- Verify power supply operation
- Test backup battery systems
- Inspect wiring and connections
Anual Maintenance:
- Professional calibration and certification
- Sensor replacement as needed
- Software updates and patches
- System performance evaluation
- Documentation review and update
Many leak detection failures occur because of lack of maintenance rather than equipment failure. A $500 annual maintenance program prevents $50,000+ in undetected leak costs.
Responding to Leak Detection Alarms
When leak detection systems alarm, New York requires immediate response:
Within 1 Hour:
- Investigate cause of alarm
- Check for obvious releases or spills
- Verify alarm is not due to system malfunction
- Document initial investigation findings
Within 24 Hours:
- If leak suspected, notify DEC
- Begin detailed investigation to locate source
- Implement temporary measures to prevent further release
- Contact emergency response contractor if needed
Within 7 Days:
- Complete investigation and identify problem
- Submit findings and corrective action plan to DEC
- Begin repairs or remediation as approved
- Implement enhanced monitoring if necessary
Ignoring leak detection alarms is not only a violation - it's an invitation to environmental One station owner ignored alarms for six months, resulting in a $750,000 cleanup bill criminal charges
Penalty Structure for Violations
New York requires continuous leak detection monitoring for all underground storage tanks.Simply having leak detection equipment isn't enough - it must be operational, properlymaintained, and monitored regularly.
Approved Leak Detection Methods
NYS DEC accepts several leak detection methods, but all must meet specific performancestandards:
Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG):
Most common method in New York. Requirements include:
- Capable of detecting 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate
- Testing inventory at least every 30 days
- Providing continuous overfill prevention
- Maintaining records of all tests and alarms
- Calibrated annually by certified technician
Interstitial Monitoring:
For double-wall tanks and piping. Requirements include:
- Continuous monitoring of interstitial space
- Immediate alarm upon detection of product in interstitial space
- Monthly testing of sensor functionality
- Annual certification of system operation
- Response procedures for alarm conditions
Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR):
Sophisticated method analyzing inventory data. Requirements include:
- Daily inventory measurements at consistent times
- Temperature compensation for volume changes
- 30-day data collection period minimum
- Statistical analysis by approved provider
- Monthly reporting of reconciliation results
Manual Tank Gauging:
Rarely approved in New York except for small tanks (<1,000 gallons). Requirements include:
- Weekly measurements using calibrated stick
- Precise measurement to 1/8 inch
- Temperature measurements for volume compensation
- Detailed written records of all measurements
- Statistical analysis of measurement trends
Monthly Monitoring Requirements
Having leak detection equipment isn't sufficient - you must actively monitor it:
Daily Requirements:
- Check automatic tank gauge for alarms
- Review any unusual inventory variances
- Investigate any leak detection system warnings
- Document any operational issues
- Respond immediately to any alarm conditions
Monthly Requirements:
- Review 30 days of inventory reconciliation data
- Verify all leak detection tests completed
- Check sensor functionality
- Review and print any system reports
- Document monitoring activities in compliance log
Annual Requirements:
- Complete leak detection system certification testing
- Calibrate automatic tank gauges
- Test all sensors and alarms
- Review and update monitoring procedures
- Submit annual monitoring summary to DEC if required
Leak Detection System Maintenance
Leak detection systems require regular maintenance to remain reliable:
Quarterly Maintenance:
- Clean probes and sensors
- Check communication connections
- Verify power supply operation
- Test backup battery systems
- Inspect wiring and connections
Anual Maintenance:
- Professional calibration and certification
- Sensor replacement as needed
- Software updates and patches
- System performance evaluation
- Documentation review and update
Many leak detection failures occur because of lack of maintenance rather than equipment failure. A $500 annual maintenance program prevents $50,000+ in undetected leak costs.
Responding to Leak Detection Alarms
When leak detection systems alarm, New York requires immediate response:
Within 1 Hour:
- Investigate cause of alarm
- Check for obvious releases or spills
- Verify alarm is not due to system malfunction
- Document initial investigation findings
Within 24 Hours:
- If leak suspected, notify DEC
- Begin detailed investigation to locate source
- Implement temporary measures to prevent further release
- Contact emergency response contractor if needed
Within 7 Days:
- Complete investigation and identify problem
- Submit findings and corrective action plan to DEC
- Begin repairs or remediation as approved
- Implement enhanced monitoring if necessary
Ignoring leak detection alarms is not only a violation - it's an invitation to environmental One station owner ignored alarms for six months, resulting in a $750,000 cleanup bill criminal charges
Common Compliance Mistakes to Avoid
New York requires continuous leak detection monitoring for all underground storage tanks.Simply having leak detection equipment isn't enough - it must be operational, properlymaintained, and monitored regularly.
Approved Leak Detection Methods
NYS DEC accepts several leak detection methods, but all must meet specific performancestandards:
Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG):
Most common method in New York. Requirements include:
- Capable of detecting 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate
- Testing inventory at least every 30 days
- Providing continuous overfill prevention
- Maintaining records of all tests and alarms
- Calibrated annually by certified technician
Interstitial Monitoring:
For double-wall tanks and piping. Requirements include:
- Continuous monitoring of interstitial space
- Immediate alarm upon detection of product in interstitial space
- Monthly testing of sensor functionality
- Annual certification of system operation
- Response procedures for alarm conditions
Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR):
Sophisticated method analyzing inventory data. Requirements include:
- Daily inventory measurements at consistent times
- Temperature compensation for volume changes
- 30-day data collection period minimum
- Statistical analysis by approved provider
- Monthly reporting of reconciliation results
Manual Tank Gauging:
Rarely approved in New York except for small tanks (<1,000 gallons). Requirements include:
- Weekly measurements using calibrated stick
- Precise measurement to 1/8 inch
- Temperature measurements for volume compensation
- Detailed written records of all measurements
- Statistical analysis of measurement trends
Monthly Monitoring Requirements
Having leak detection equipment isn't sufficient - you must actively monitor it:
Daily Requirements:
- Check automatic tank gauge for alarms
- Review any unusual inventory variances
- Investigate any leak detection system warnings
- Document any operational issues
- Respond immediately to any alarm conditions
Monthly Requirements:
- Review 30 days of inventory reconciliation data
- Verify all leak detection tests completed
- Check sensor functionality
- Review and print any system reports
- Document monitoring activities in compliance log
Annual Requirements:
- Complete leak detection system certification testing
- Calibrate automatic tank gauges
- Test all sensors and alarms
- Review and update monitoring procedures
- Submit annual monitoring summary to DEC if required
Leak Detection System Maintenance
Leak detection systems require regular maintenance to remain reliable:
Quarterly Maintenance:
- Clean probes and sensors
- Check communication connections
- Verify power supply operation
- Test backup battery systems
- Inspect wiring and connections
Anual Maintenance:
- Professional calibration and certification
- Sensor replacement as needed
- Software updates and patches
- System performance evaluation
- Documentation review and update
Many leak detection failures occur because of lack of maintenance rather than equipment failure. A $500 annual maintenance program prevents $50,000+ in undetected leak costs.
Responding to Leak Detection Alarms
When leak detection systems alarm, New York requires immediate response:
Within 1 Hour:
- Investigate cause of alarm
- Check for obvious releases or spills
- Verify alarm is not due to system malfunction
- Document initial investigation findings
Within 24 Hours:
- If leak suspected, notify DEC
- Begin detailed investigation to locate source
- Implement temporary measures to prevent further release
- Contact emergency response contractor if needed
Within 7 Days:
- Complete investigation and identify problem
- Submit findings and corrective action plan to DEC
- Begin repairs or remediation as approved
- Implement enhanced monitoring if necessary
Ignoring leak detection alarms is not only a violation - it's an invitation to environmental One station owner ignored alarms for six months, resulting in a $750,000 cleanup bill criminal charges
