Underground Storage Tanks in NJ: Rules & Removal Strategies

What Lies Beneath Could Cost You

Underground storage tanks (USTs) once powered New Jersey’s economy, fueling gas stations, factories, and apartment buildings alike. But decades later, many of those buried tanks have become environmental time bombs.

As tanks corrode, they can leak petroleum, solvents, or other hazardous substances into soil and groundwater. What starts as a small leak can lead to thousands of dollars in cleanup costs, NJDEP violations, and potential health risks.

To protect both property owners and the environment, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) enforces strict UST regulations for installation, operation, closure, and remediation.

This article breaks down everything you need to know about Underground Storage Tanks in New Jersey, from compliance rules and removal procedures to cost expectations and how Oak Environmental helps businesses stay safe and compliant.

What Is an Underground Storage Tank (UST)?

An Underground Storage Tank (UST) is any tank and its associated piping where at least 10% of its volume lies beneath the surface of the ground. These systems are typically used to store petroleum products, heating oil, or hazardous chemicals.

Common UST Types

• Petroleum Tanks: Gasoline, diesel, or heating oil
  

• Chemical Tanks: Solvents, lubricants, and industrial materials
  

• Emergency Generator Tanks: Often found at hospitals, offices, and government buildings
  
  

Environmental Risk

Over time, even well-installed tanks can deteriorate due to corrosion, improper maintenance, or ground movement. When leaks occur, contaminants can migrate through the soil, seep into groundwater, and even enter nearby buildings through vapor intrusion, posing serious health and regulatory risks.

NJDEP Regulations Governing Underground Storage Tanks

The UST Program in New Jersey operates under a combination of state and federal laws, ensuring all underground tanks meet environmental safety standards.

1. Regulatory Framework

• Federal Oversight: U.S. EPA’s Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Subtitle I
  
  

• State Oversight: NJDEP’s Underground Storage Tank Rules (N.J.A.C. 7:14B)
  
  

These rules set standards for installation, operation, leak detection, and closure for both active and abandoned UST systems.

2. Who Must Comply

UST regulations apply to:

• Commercial and industrial properties with underground fuel or chemical tanks
  
  

• Fuel distributors, gas stations, and transportation facilities
  
  

• Municipalities, schools, and institutions with on-site tanks
  
  

Residential tanks under 2,000 gallons used solely for home heating oil are often exempt from full regulation but must still be handled according to NJDEP environmental standards during removal.

3. Registration and Permitting

• All regulated UST systems must be registered with NJDEP.
  
  

• Permits are required for installation, modification, and removal.
  
  

• Owners must maintain records of testing, maintenance, and repairs for inspection.
  
  

4. Leak Detection and Monitoring

UST systems must have approved leak detection and monitoring systems, such as:

• Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG)
  
  

• Interstitial Monitoring for double-walled tanks
  
  

• Groundwater or vapor monitoring wells
  
  

Failure to maintain leak detection systems is one of the most common violations cited by NJDEP.

5. Reporting Leaks

Any suspected or confirmed discharge must be reported to NJDEP’s Hotline (1-877-WARNDEP) within 24 hours. Immediate action is required to contain the release and initiate an investigation.

The UST Removal Process in New Jersey

Whether you’re retiring an old system or responding to a leak, proper removal requires licensed oversight, documentation, and testing.

Here’s how the process typically works:

Step 1: Pre-Removal Assessment

• Obtain required NJDEP permits for closure.
  
  

• Review tank records, drawings, and historical usage.
  
  

• Evaluate the potential for soil or groundwater contamination.
  
  

Step 2: Tank Excavation

• A Licensed Subsurface Evaluator (SSE) oversees excavation.
  
  

• The tank is carefully exposed, emptied, and vented to prevent fire hazards.
  
  

• Associated piping is removed or sealed in accordance with regulations.
  
  

Step 3: Tank Cleaning and Disposal

• Any remaining fuel or sludge is cleaned and disposed of by a certified waste transporter.
  
  

• Tanks are then cut, cleaned, and recycled at approved facilities.
  
  

Step 4: Soil Sampling and Analysis

• Soil samples are collected from beneath and around the tank pit.
  
  

• Samples are tested for petroleum hydrocarbons, VOCs, and metals.
  
  

• If results exceed NJDEP remediation standards, further investigation or cleanup is required.
  
  

Step 5: Groundwater Testing (If Required)

If contamination is suspected to have migrated, groundwater monitoring wells are installed and tested to evaluate the plume extent.

Step 6: Reporting and Case Closure

• Oak Environmental prepares and submits a UST Closure Report to NJDEP with lab data, disposal manifests, and site documentation.
  
  

• If contamination is present, the site undergoes remediation. Once standards are met, an NJDEP Response Action Outcome (RAO) or No Further Action (NFA) letter is issued.

The Cost of UST Removal and Remediation

The cost of removing an underground storage tank in New Jersey can vary widely based on the tank’s condition, size, and site contamination.

Typical Cost Range

Service Estimated Cost Range

Tank Removal (Non-Leaking) $2,500 – $5,000

Contaminated Soil Excavation $5,000 – $20,000+

Groundwater Remediation $10,000 – $50,000+

Soil & Lab Testing $1,500 – $4,000

Regulatory Reporting Included with project

Cost Factors

• Tank Size: Larger tanks require more excavation and disposal.
  
  

• Material: Steel tanks are prone to corrosion; fiberglass tanks are easier to remove.
  
  

• Depth & Accessibility: Urban or paved sites may need specialized equipment.
  
  

• Contamination Extent: The more soil or groundwater impacted, the higher the remediation costs.
  
  

• Regulatory Oversight: Projects under NJDEP review require additional reporting and certified professionals.
  
  

Investing in proper removal now prevents much higher costs later, often saving tens of thousands in penalties and emergency remediation.

Environmental Risks of Abandoned or Leaking USTs

Many older properties in New Jersey still have abandoned tanks buried underground, often forgotten for decades. These pose significant environmental and financial risks.

Common Consequences of Ignoring USTs

• Soil and Groundwater Contamination from Petroleum Leaks
  
  

• Vapor Intrusion into buildings, creating indoor air hazards
  
  

• Costly Cleanup Orders issued by NJDEP
  
  

• Loss of Property Value and Financing Complications
  
  

• Legal Liability under the NJ Spill Compensation and Control Act — even for contamination you didn’t cause
  
  

A leaking tank is more than an environmental hazard; it’s a liability that can delay or derail property sales, loans, and redevelopment plans.

How Oak Environmental Manages UST Removal and Remediation

At Oak Environmental, we specialize in managing underground storage tank projects safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with NJDEP regulations.

Our Core Services

• UST Investigation & Leak Detection
  Identify and assess potential contamination quickly.
  
  

• NJDEP Permitting & Documentation
  We handle the entire process, from permit applications to closure reporting.
  
  

• Tank Removal & Cleaning
  Certified excavation, disposal, and decommissioning with proper waste manifests.
  
  

• Soil and Groundwater Sampling
  Laboratory-grade testing to determine contamination levels.
  
  

• Remediation & Regulatory Closure
  Cleanup design, implementation, and NJDEP-approved closure documentation (RAO/NFA).
  
  

Why Clients Trust Oak Environmental

• Licensed Subsurface Evaluators (SSEs) with decades of field experience.
  
  

• Proven success with commercial, industrial, and municipal tank projects.
  
  

• Transparent cost estimates and efficient timelines.
  
  

• Close coordination with lenders, attorneys, and NJDEP for fast case closure.
  
  

With Oak Environmental, you can remove, remediate, and restore your property — safely, efficiently, and fully compliant with NJDEP standards.

Preventing Future UST Issues

The best way to avoid contamination is proactive management.

1. Upgrade to Modern Systems

• Use double-walled, corrosion-resistant tanks with leak detection and secondary containment.
  
  

2. Conduct Regular Monitoring

• Schedule annual inspections and maintenance of active USTs.
  
  

3. Keep Accurate Records

• Maintain all installation, maintenance, and testing documentation for NJDEP inspection.
  
  

4. Plan for Replacement or Decommissioning

• Tanks older than 20–25 years should be evaluated for removal or replacement.

Benefits of Proper UST Removal and Closure

• Regulatory Compliance: Meet all NJDEP and EPA requirements.
  
  

• Liability Protection: Avoid penalties and lawsuits related to leaks.
  
  

• Environmental Safety: Prevent soil and groundwater contamination.
  
  

• Property Value: Clean sites are easier to sell or redevelop.
  
  

• Peace of Mind: Confidence knowing your property is safe and compliant.

Case Example: Commercial Tank Removal Success

A New Jersey logistics company discovered two 10,000-gallon underground diesel tanks during expansion. Testing revealed minor soil impact from corrosion-related leaks.

Oak Environmental managed the entire process — from NJDEP permitting and excavation to sampling and reporting. Within eight weeks, both tanks were removed, the impacted soil was remediated, and NJDEP issued a Response Action Outcome (RAO) confirming site closure.

The client avoided regulatory fines, maintained full operational continuity, and saved thousands through early detection and efficient management.

Conclusion: Remove the Risk Before It Spreads

Underground storage tanks can quickly transform from assets into liabilities if ignored or improperly managed. Compliance with NJDEP regulations not only protects the environment but also safeguards your investment and reputation.

Whether you need help with tank removal, contamination assessment, or remediation planning, Oak Environmental delivers turnkey solutions designed for safety, compliance, and peace of mind.

Take Action Today

If you suspect a leaking or abandoned underground storage tank on your property, it’s important to act before a small issue becomes a costly problem. Oak Environmental specializes in commercial and industrial UST removal, environmental testing, and NJDEP-compliant remediation throughout New Jersey. Our certified professionals handle every stage of the process — from permitting and excavation to cleanup and closure — with safety, efficiency, and complete documentation. To learn how we can help you protect your property and maintain compliance, visit oaknj.com/contact to schedule a consultation today.

Oak Environmental — New Jersey’s trusted partner for underground storage tank management, removal, and remediation.