Aboveground Storage Tanks: Important Details You Need to Know

Who is required to register their Aboveground Storage Tanks?

Under New Hampshire law, businesses must register their ASTs with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NH DES) if they have a single tank larger than 660 gallons, or multiple tanks with a combined capacity exceeding 1,320 gallons of motor fuels, heating oils, lubricating oils, insulating oils, used oils, other petroleum products, and petroleum-contaminated liquids.

How will I know when I will be inspected?

If you have registered ASTs, it is not “if” I will be inspected, but “when” will I be inspected.

The NH DES AST Facility Inspector will contact the person listed on the NH DES One Stop Navigation site. You can find who is listed as your “Contact Person” at the following link: https://www4.des.state.nh.us/DESOnestop/BasicSearch.aspx. If you need assistance with accessing your information or updating your contact information please reach out to your NHADA Loss Prevention Representative.

The NH DES AST Facility Inspector will contact whomever is listed as the designated “contact person” which was listed when you registered your aboveground storage tanks. In the event, you are contacted by the NH DES respond promptly. They will be accommodating with your schedule.

Your NHADA Loss Prevention Representative can be present during the inspection so, please contact us as well.

What to expect during an inspection?

The inspection will begin with making sure all your paperwork is in place. Review the items below to help in preparation for your inspection.

• Do you have a Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan? Is the plan up to date?
• Have your registered ASTs alarms been tested annually by a certified inspection company?
• Have the alarm testing documents been uploaded to “One-Stop” (New Hampshire's central, searchable online database for environmental data, documents, permits, and reports)?
• Are monthly inspections of ASTs being performed and documented internally?

Following checking on all paperwork, a physical inspection of your registered ASTs for labeling, condition, proximity to drains, etc. will take place. The scope of the inspection will focus on all petroleum products and storage.

How to prepare?

The thought of an inspection from any regulator can create anxiety, but with proper preparation this process can be smooth. NHADA is here to assist.

If you are unregistered or unsure and looking for assistance please contact your NHADA Loss Prevention Representative and we will help prepare your facility. Please contact me at paustin@nhada.com or 603-224-2369 for assistance.