Aboveground Storage Tanks (AST)

Combustible and Flammable Liquid Storage Tanks Regulations and Permits

For questions about the new 2007 regulations for Above Ground Storage Tanks, please contact (707) 565-2410 Commercial Plan Check.

Overview:

All Above Ground Storage Tanks (AST) must be installed with a building permit regardless of size to Sonoma County DES if the location is in the un-incorporated are of Sonoma County.

The building department will also be interested in the electrical connections to verify compliance of the building code and electrical code.

Tanks installed for agricultural (Ag) use will not be exempt from permitting requirements.

AST’s will be regulated by the CUPA Authority for yearly inspections
AST’s that will be used for Ag use will be regulated by the Ag commission for yearly inspection.

Minimum Requirements:

Scaled site plan showing tank location, distance from nearest building/s, distance from property line/s,
Emergency vehicle access and water supply for fire protection
Distance from other tanks containing combustible liquids or gases, if applicable.
Manufacturers tank specifications and UL listing with a two (2) Hour fire resistive construction minimum.
Type of fuel to be dispensed.
Location of Emergency Shutoff switch a minimum of 20 but not more than 100 feet from tank.
Show location of a durable sign stating "in case of fire or spill use emergency pump shutoff".
Location of approved portable fire extinguisher within 75 feet of tank.
Details of electrical equipment in accordance with the California Electrical Code.
Vehicle impact protection
Concrete pad details
Signage "No Smoking", and a sign with type of fuel and appropriate NFPA 704 Diamond affixed to the AST.
Method of spill containment; prevent fuel from flowing into buildings or off site when such possibility exists.
Submittal of approved SPCC plan as required by the CUPA Program.

Authority Cited:

Chapter 22 of the California Fire Code
California Plumbing Code
California Building Code
California Electrical Code
NFPA 30 Flammable Liquids
NFPA 30a Dispensing Facilities
NFPA 407 for Aircraft