Georgia UST Regulations 2026: EPD USTMP Program Guide

Key Compliance Requirements

Staying compliant involves several recurring tasks and operational requirements:

• Annual Registration: All USTs must be registered annually with the EPD
• Operator Training: Certified Class A, B, and C operators must be properly trained and designated for each facility
• Record Keeping: All compliance documentation, including testing results and inspection reports, must be retained for at least three years

Periodic Testing Requirements

• Monthly: All tanks must have a leak detection method, such as Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR) or automatic tank gauging with interstitial monitoring
• Annually: Tank systems require line tightness testing and a functional test of all leak detection equipment
• Triennially (Every 3 Years): Spill bucket and overfill prevention equipment must be professionally tested for integrity

Leak Detection and Reporting Rules

Georgia requires robust leak detection systems and prompt reporting of any suspected issues:

• Detection Methods: Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR), automatic tank gauging with interstitial monitoring, or other approved methods
• Reporting Timeline: Suspected leaks must be reported to the EPD within 24 hours
• Triggering Events: Failed tightness test, inconclusive monthly monitoring results, or unusual conditions
• Confirmed Releases: Also require immediate reporting and initiate the corrective action process

Prompt and accurate reporting is critical for both environmental safety and maintaining eligibility for state cleanup funds.

Financial Responsibility and GUST Fund

All UST owners must demonstrate financial responsibility to cover the potential costs of a release. The most common mechanism in Georgia is the Georgia Underground Storage Tank (GUST) Trust Fund:

• Financing: Funded by a per-gallon Environmental Assurance Fee on petroleum products
• Deductible: $10,000 per incident
• Coverage: Up to $1 million per occurrence for most owners
• Eligibility: Requires full compliance with UST regulations to maintain access
• Covers corrective action costs beyond the deductible amount

Regulatory Outlook for 2026

While no sweeping regulatory changes are anticipated for 2026, the EPD continues to focus on stringent enforcement:

• Emphasis: Proper testing of spill prevention and leak detection equipment
• Growing Focus: Vapor intrusion (VI) assessment and mitigation in cleanups
• Health Protection: Ensuring chemical vapors do not pose risks to nearby buildings
• Continued alignment with federal EPA regulations

Practical Tips for UST Owners

• Calendar is Key: Create a compliance calendar to track all monthly, annual, and triennial testing deadlines.
• Train Your Team: Ensure on-site staff (Class C Operators) know how to respond to alarms and emergencies.
• Keep Clean Records: Maintain a well-organized file—digital or physical—of all compliance documents. This simplifies EPD inspections.
• Know Your Numbers: Understand your monthly inventory and leak detection results. Question any data that looks abnormal.
• Report Promptly: In the event of a suspected leak, call the EPD immediately. Hesitation can lead to greater environmental damage and potential loss of GUST Fund eligibility.
• Maintain Compliance: Full regulatory compliance is essential for GUST Fund eligibility—don't risk losing coverage.