If your facility needs to store fuel, chemicals, or water in bulk, chances are you’ve looked into aboveground storage tanks. These tanks are widely used in industrial, agricultural, and commercial settings—but understanding how they work, what’s required to stay compliant, and how they differ from other systems isn’t always straightforward.
Why does it matter? Because improper storage can lead to environmental fines, safety risks, and operational shutdowns. Worse, even well-meaning businesses often overlook key regulations.
This guide breaks down what aboveground storage tanks are, how they work, and the requirements you need to know to stay safe and compliant—especially in places like Texas.
What Are Aboveground Storage Tanks and How Do They Work?
Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) are large containers used to store liquids or gases above the surface of the ground, as opposed to underground. These tanks are typically made from steel or fiberglass and can hold substances like oil, fuel, chemicals, or water.
They’re used in facilities where quick access, regular inspection, and easier maintenance are a priority. Unlike underground tanks, ASTs are exposed to weather, which means corrosion protection and secondary containment measures are often required. Their components usually include:
- A steel or composite shell
- Manways or hatches for inspection
- Vents and pressure relief valves
- Gauges for volume and pressure
For example, an above ground gasoline tank must be properly vented and secured to avoid fire hazards and meet local fire code regulations.
Are Aboveground Storage Tanks Regulated by the EPA?
Yes, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates ASTs that store petroleum or hazardous substances under the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) rule. This applies if your facility has more than 1,320 gallons of total aboveground capacity.
Facilities must have a written SPCC plan if they meet the threshold, outlining spill prevention and response strategies.
What Are the OSHA Regulations for Above Ground Storage Tanks?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) governs safety practices for ASTs under standards such as:
- 29 CFR 1910.106 – covers flammable liquids
- 1910.110 – addresses liquefied petroleum gases
- Fire protection, grounding, and spacing requirements
OSHA also requires employee training and the use of protective equipment when working around tanks.
Above Ground Storage Tank Requirements: What You Should Know
To comply with federal and state guidelines, ASTs must meet several requirements:
- Design standards: such as API 650 for welded steel tanks or UL 142 for shop-fabricated tanks
- Labeling: tanks must display substance type, hazards, and capacity
- Security: fencing, access control, and spill kits are often required
- Spill prevention: compliant with SPCC plans
Tanks storing hazardous materials may also need regular leak detection testing or alarms.
Texas Above-Ground Storage Tank Regulations: A Quick Overview
In Texas, ASTs are regulated by multiple agencies depending on the contents:
- Petroleum tanks: regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)
- Hazardous chemicals: may fall under the Texas Department of State Health Services
- Local fire marshals may impose additional safety codes
The TCEQ requires tanks to be registered and may inspect them to ensure compliance with spill prevention and structural integrity rules.
What Are the Secondary Containment Requirements for Aboveground Storage Tanks?
Secondary containment is essential to prevent leaks from contaminating soil and water. The EPA requires:
- Dikes or berms: must hold 110% of the largest tank’s volume
- Double-walled tanks: may serve as built-in containment
- Drainage systems: must be properly sealed and maintained
If a tank contains oil, the containment must be capable of preventing discharge until cleanup.
Above Ground Storage Tank Inspection Requirements
Inspections are typically governed by API Standard 653, which sets the standard for the inspection, repair, and maintenance of steel storage tanks. Key inspection types include:
- Visual inspections: usually done monthly
- Internal inspections: every 10 years (or sooner for certain tanks)
- Ultrasonic testing: checks wall thickness and corrosion
Inspection logs must be kept and made available during audits or agency visits.
Are Above Ground Storage Tanks Pressurized?
Most aboveground storage tanks are atmospheric, meaning they are not pressurized. They rely on vents and relief valves to manage internal pressure caused by temperature or filling.
However, pressure vessels—which are a separate category—are designed to store substances under pressure and must follow different safety codes like ASME Section VIII. Always verify your tank’s pressure rating before installation or modification.
Key Facts About Aboveground Storage Tanks
- Regulated by: EPA (SPCC rules), OSHA, and state/local agencies.
- Common uses: Fuel, oil, chemicals, water, fertilizers.
- Requirements: Spill containment, labeling, routine inspections.
- Inspection codes: API 653 for maintenance and testing.
Aboveground Storage Compliance Starts with Understanding the Basics
Whether you’re installing a new tank or maintaining an existing one, knowing the regulations, requirements, and risks associated with aboveground storage tanks is critical. From EPA and OSHA compliance to Texas-specific rules and inspection standards, keeping up with the details helps prevent costly violations—and protects people and the environment.
If you’re unsure where your current system stands, start with a compliance audit and refer to resources like the EPA SPCC portal or TCEQ’s storage tank guidelines.
Ready to Upgrade Your Aboveground Storage Solution?
Whether you’re building a new facility or replacing outdated tanks, having a compliant, high-quality aboveground storage system is non-negotiable. At Tex Tanks, we make it simple. As a certified tank manufacturer based in Austin, TX, we provide UL-listed aboveground storage tanks that meet EPA, OSHA, and Texas state regulations—without the guesswork.
From fuel and chemical storage to turnkey containment systems, our expert team helps you choose the right tank, meet inspection requirements, and stay ahead of costly compliance issues.
👉 Get a quote today or call us at (512) 731-1412 to learn how Tex Tanks can streamline your fuel system needs—serving clients across the United States, Latin America, and Canada.