Who Can Remove an Underground Oil Tank in NJ?
It is tempting to hire whoever has the equipment to dig. For an underground heating oil tank in New Jersey, that is not allowed. The state limits who may do the work.
The rule
According to the NJDEP’s homeowner FAQ, a closure-certified individual working for a closure-certified UST firm is required to remove an underground unregulated heating oil tank. The certification rules are in N.J.A.C. 7:14B, the state’s Underground Storage of Hazardous Substances rules.
What about an LSRP?
A Licensed Site Remediation Professional cannot remove or close an underground storage tank unless he or she is also certified for closure. The NJDEP adds that a closure-certified individual must be present on site during the removal.
What if the tank leaked?
Investigating and cleaning up a discharge needs a certified subsurface evaluator working for a firm certified in subsurface evaluation, or a Licensed Site Remediation Professional. A closure contractor can do the cleanup only if the firm also holds subsurface evaluation certification. If it does not, you need to hire a second firm.
How to check
Use the NJDEP’s DataMiner reports and look at the Cert Type column. See How to Check a Tank Contractor’s Certification in NJ.
Before the work
- Get a written contract with a maximum price. See What Should Be in an Oil Tank Removal Contract in NJ?.
- Ask about the permit. The removal of an unregulated heating oil tank falls under the Uniform Construction Code, with permits usually issued by the municipality.
- Call your insurer first. See Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Oil Tank Removal in NJ?.
Above ground tanks follow different rules
See Who Can Remove an Above Ground Oil Tank in NJ?.
First, confirm what you have
A removal quote is easier when you know a tank exists and where it is. A sweep finds it, and an exploratory dig confirms it. We can also point you to professionals through our removal referrals. Call 732-673-1584.
