Pennsylvania UST Regulations 2026: DEP Act 32 Guide

Key Compliance Requirements

All owners of regulated USTs must register their tanks with the DEP and secure an annual operating permit to remain in service. To prevent releases, the DEP mandates a strict inspection and maintenance schedule:

• Monthly walk-through inspections to check for visible issues
• 30-day visual checks of all spill prevention equipment
• Annual inspections of release detection equipment to ensure proper functioning
• Triennial (every 3 years) tightness testing for containment sumps and spill prevention equipment

Crucially, all periodic testing and inspections must be performed by a DEP-certified inspector. For new and replacement tank systems, total secondary containment is mandatory.

Leak Detection and Reporting Rules

Continuous monitoring is the cornerstone of Pennsylvania's UST regulations. Owners must use approved leak detection methods:

• Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG): Systems that continuously monitor fuel levels and automatically test for leaks
• Continuous Interstitial Monitoring: For double-walled systems, continuous monitoring of the space between walls
• Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR): Monthly analysis of inventory, delivery, and dispensing data

If a suspected leak is detected or a spill occurs, owners are required to report it to the DEP within 24 hours. Prompt investigation and confirmation of the release must follow, leading to immediate corrective action to mitigate any environmental impact.

Financial Responsibility and USTIF Fund

UST owners must demonstrate financial responsibility to cover the costs of potential cleanups and third-party damages. Pennsylvania facilitates this through the Underground Storage Tank Indemnification Fund (USTIF), a state-managed cleanup fund.

2026 USTIF Details

• Deductible: $5,000 per tank for each corrective action incident in 2026
• Eligibility Requirements: Owners must remain in compliance with all DEP regulations, including fee payments, registration, and permitting
• Recent Updates: Amendments to USTIF regulations effective January 2026 clarify eligibility requirements for claimants
• State-managed fund provides coverage for cleanup costs and third-party liability

Secondary Containment Requirements

Pennsylvania has strict secondary containment requirements to prevent releases from reaching the environment. For new and replacement tank systems, total secondary containment is mandatory. This includes:

• Double-walled tanks with interstitial monitoring
• Secondary containment for all piping systems
• Containment sumps for dispensers and fill ports
• Regular tightness testing of all containment systems

Practical Tips for UST Owners

• Maintain Meticulous Records: Keep all inspection reports, maintenance logs, and leak detection results organized and accessible.
• Schedule Certified Inspections Early: Don't wait until the deadline to schedule your required three-year tests with DEP-certified inspectors.
• Train Your Staff: Ensure on-site personnel can identify and respond to alarms and potential emergencies.
• Stay Current with Fees and Permits: Timely payment of USTIF fees and renewal of your DEP operating permit are essential for maintaining liability coverage.
• Address Issues Promptly: Do not defer maintenance or repair of failing equipment. Proactive management prevents minor issues from becoming major environmental liabilities.
• Understand Act 32: Familiarize yourself with the Storage Tank and Spill Prevention Act requirements and their implications for your facility.