Texas UST Regulations 2026: TCEQ Compliance Guide

Key Compliance Requirements

All regulated USTs, even if temporarily out of use, must be registered annually with the TCEQ. Owners are required to submit proof of financial assurance with their self-certification forms to renew their delivery certificates. Core requirements for UST systems include:

• Robust leak detection systems to identify potential releases early
• Effective corrosion protection for metal components to prevent degradation
• Functional spill and overfill prevention controls to contain incidents during fuel delivery

Leak Detection and Reporting Rules

The TCEQ mandates rigorous leak detection and reporting requirements:

• Annual testing of all release detection equipment, including automatic tank gauges, probes, sensors, and automatic line leak detectors
• Walkthrough inspections of spill prevention equipment (spill buckets) and release detection equipment every 30 days
• Monthly inspections of UST systems for general maintenance and compliance

Should a release occur, Texas law demands swift action. Any spill of 25 gallons or more must be reported immediately to the TCEQ and local authorities. Facilities are also required to maintain a written spill response plan on-site, ensuring readiness for potential incidents.

Financial Responsibility and PSTR Fund

UST owners and operators are mandated to demonstrate financial capability to cover potential corrective actions and third-party liability costs in the event of an accidental release. This financial assurance ensures that funds are available for environmental cleanup and damages.

Texas operates the Petroleum Storage Tank Remediation (PSTR) Fund, managed by the TCEQ, which provides critical support for cleanup efforts. This fund, financed by a fee on fuel at bulk distribution facilities, reimburses eligible responsible parties for corrective action costs related to releases from both underground and aboveground storage tanks.

• To qualify for reimbursement, tanks must have been registered by December 31, 1995, with all associated fees paid
• The PSTR Fund can reimburse up to $1 million per incident
• A mandatory owner/operator deductible must be met before reimbursement begins

Operator Training and Notifications

Each UST facility must have at least one trained individual for Class A, Class B, and Class C operator classifications, with retraining required every three years. Owners must notify the TCEQ at least 30 days before initiating any construction work (installation, removal, repair, or upgrade) on a UST facility. Changes in ownership must also be reported to the TCEQ within 30 days.

Practical Tips for UST Owners

• Stay Informed: Regularly review TCEQ guidance documents, especially the "PST Super Guide," for the latest interpretations and best practices.
• Maintain Detailed Records: Keep meticulous records of all inspections, testing, training, maintenance, and repairs. These are vital for demonstrating compliance during audits.
• Proactive Maintenance: Don't wait for issues to arise. Implement a proactive maintenance schedule for all UST components to prevent leaks and ensure longevity.
• Regular Training: Ensure all operators complete their required training and retraining on schedule to maintain a knowledgeable and compliant workforce.
• Emergency Preparedness: Develop and regularly review your spill response plan. Conduct drills to ensure staff can effectively respond to emergencies.
• Budget for Compliance: Factor in the costs of annual fees, testing, training, and potential deductibles for the PSTR Fund into your operational budget.