Ohio UST Regulations 2026: BUSTR Program Guide
Complete compliance guide for Ohio underground storage tank owners and environmental professionals
Navigating environmental regulations is critical for owners and operators of underground storage tanks (USTs) in Ohio. The Bureau of Underground Storage Tank Regulations (BUSTR) operates under the State Fire Marshal, a division of the Ohio Department of Commerce. BUSTR enforces regulations detailed in Chapter 1301:7-9 of the Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) to prevent petroleum releases and protect public health and the environment.
Key Compliance Requirements
To remain in compliance, UST owners must adhere to several core requirements that focus on prevention and early detection of releases:
- Corrosion Protection: All tanks must have proper corrosion protection, either through non-corrodible materials or cathodic protection systems
- Spill and Overfill Prevention: Installation and maintenance of spill and overfill prevention equipment
- Regular Maintenance: Mandatory inspections and maintenance of all equipment to ensure proper working order
- Registration: All UST systems must be properly registered with BUSTR
Leak Detection and Reporting Rules
Continuous monitoring is the cornerstone of release prevention in Ohio. Owners must implement approved leak detection methods:
- Automatic Tank Gauging: Continuous monitoring of fuel levels with automatic leak testing capabilities
- Interstitial Monitoring: For double-walled tanks, monitoring the space between walls for leaks
- Statistical Inventory Reconciliation: Analysis of inventory, delivery, and dispensing data to identify potential leaks
If a release is suspected or confirmed, operators must report it to BUSTR within 24 hours. Following the initial report, owners are required to take immediate action to prevent any further release and begin investigating and confirming the source.
Financial Responsibility and Cleanup Fund
Ohio law requires UST owners to demonstrate financial responsibility to cover the costs of potential cleanup or third-party damages. Most owners meet this requirement through the Petroleum Underground Storage Tank Financial Assurance Fund.
2026 Fund Details
- Managed by the Petroleum Underground Storage Tank Release Compensation Board (PUSTRCB)
- Supported by annual per-tank fees
- 2026 Annual Fees: $350 or $550 per tank
- Corresponding Deductibles: $55,000 or $11,000, respectively
- Fund reimburses eligible owners for necessary corrective action costs
Recent Changes and 2026 Updates
Ohio's regulations are updated periodically to align with federal EPA standards. Key updates for 2026 include:
- Mileage Reimbursement: As of January 1, 2026, the rate from the Financial Assurance Fund for cleanup-related travel is $0.725 per mile
- Continued Focus: BUSTR continues emphasis on operator training, regular inspections, and enforcement of leak detection standards
Practical Tips for UST Owners
- Maintain Meticulous Records: Keep detailed logs of inventory, maintenance, inspections, and leak detection results.
- Train Your Staff: Ensure all personnel are trained on proper filling procedures, emergency response, and how to identify potential issues.
- Schedule Regular Inspections: Be proactive. Regularly check your spill buckets, test your leak detection equipment, and schedule professional inspections.
- Pay Fees Promptly: Ensure your annual tank registration and Financial Assurance Fund fees are paid on time to maintain eligibility for the cleanup fund.
- Stay Current: Monitor BUSTR communications for regulatory updates and compliance deadlines.
- Emergency Preparedness: Have a clear response plan for suspected or confirmed releases, including immediate containment measures.
For official information and the latest updates, visit the Ohio BUSTR website or check Ohio UST sites in our database.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the annual fees for Ohio's Financial Assurance Fund in 2026?
For the 2026 program year, Ohio's annual UST fees are set at $350 or $550 per tank, corresponding to deductibles of $55,000 or $11,000, respectively. The fund reimburses eligible owners for necessary corrective action costs.
When must I report a suspected release to BUSTR in Ohio?
Any suspected or confirmed release must be reported to BUSTR within 24 hours. Following the initial report, owners must take immediate action to prevent further release and begin investigating to confirm the source.
Who regulates underground storage tanks in Ohio?
The Bureau of Underground Storage Tank Regulations (BUSTR) regulates USTs in Ohio. BUSTR operates under the State Fire Marshal, which is a division of the Department of Commerce, and enforces regulations detailed in Chapter 1301:7-9 of the Ohio Administrative Code.