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Home > Environmental Programs > Land Programs > Oil Control > Underground Storage Tanks > Closure
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FACT SHEET
Underground Storage Tank Closure in Place

Maryland regulations allow the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to permit the owner to close their underground storage tank (UST) in place, in certain circumstances. Closing an UST in place involves filling the tank in place with a solid, inert material.

Activities Prior to Requesting MDE Permission:

  • Comply with closure notification requirements set forth in COMAR 26.10.10.02

  • Perform a site assessment where contamination is most likely be present to determine if there was a release, in compliance with COMAR 26.10.10.03.

  • Provide Oil Control Program, MDE the site assessment for a complete review

  • Provide Oil Control Program, MDE an engineering report that confirms that the removal of the UST would have an adverse effect on the site building foundation or other important structures or utilities within the immediate tank area (Where abandonment-in-place is obvious, MDE may preclude the engineering report requirement.)

If MDE determines that abandonment-in-place is warranted, the tank owner is advised in writing that permission has been granted for UST closure in place. Upon receiving written permission, the tank owner must employ a certified UST contractor to perform the closure in place.

Closure-In-Place

  • Completely drain the tank and piping of liquid/sludge. Ensure the removed material is properly disposed of in compliance with State and local regulations

  • Provide proper openings on tank to facilitate filling tank with chosen inert material

  • Fill tank to capacity with a solid, inert material such as concrete slurry, sand, flowable ash, or foaming agent. If foaming agent is used, measures must be taken to ensure the buoyancy of the tank is offset. (For tanks under 1,000 gallon capacity, pea gravel is an acceptable fill material. If used, ensure that a sufficient amount of concrete is used to patch tank openings.)

  • Remove or cap all supply, return, and vent lines

  • Remove all above-ground portions of the tank vent

  • Remove the tank fill pipe

  • Backfill all excavations and secure the job site

  • Amend the facility's UST registration form on file with MDE

If you have any questions, contact the Oil Control Program (410) 537-3442 (Compliance).

 
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