UST & LUST Glossary

Key terms and definitions related to underground storage tanks, LUST releases, remediation, and environmental compliance.

Underground Storage Tank (UST)

A tank and connected piping with at least 10% of volume underground, used for storing petroleum or hazardous substances.

A UST that has confirmed or suspected releases of petroleum or hazardous substances into the environment.

A documented incident where petroleum or hazardous substances have escaped from an underground storage tank system.

Adherence to federal and state regulations governing the installation, operation, and closure of underground storage tank systems.

A report assessing the likelihood of contamination on a property, commonly required during real estate transactions.

The process of cleaning up contaminated soil, groundwater, or other environmental media at a LUST or hazardous waste site.

The pollution of underground water sources by petroleum products or hazardous substances from leaking USTs or other sources.

A designated zone around a public water supply well where contamination poses a direct threat to drinking water quality.

The area from which a public water system draws its drinking water, where contamination prevention is critical.

Environmental pollution caused by the release of petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel, and heating oil from UST systems.

The process of properly decommissioning an underground storage tank, either by removal or closure in place.

The investigation and cleanup activities required when a release from an underground storage tank is confirmed.

Environmental pollution by benzene, a carcinogenic compound found in gasoline and commonly detected at LUST sites.

Environmental pollution by methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), a gasoline additive that readily dissolves in and contaminates groundwater.

The cleanup and restoration of soil contaminated by petroleum products or hazardous substances from UST releases.