Tanks, Waste & Recycling

Class II Transfer Station Application

Class II Solid Waste Facility Application

Class III Solid Waste Facility Application

Class IV Solid Waste Facility Application

Recycling Facility Application

Recycling Application Instructions

Beneficial Reuse (BUD) Application

Landfarm Application

One-Time Landfarm Application

Septic Tank Pumper Application

Septic Tank Permission Form

Septic Tank Pumper New Site Form

Small Biodiesel Application

Household Hazardous Waste Event Application

Infectious Waste Transporter Registration

Solid Waste License Transfer Application

Minor Compost Facility Application

Motor Vehicle Wrecking Facility Application

Motor Vehicle Wrecking Facility License Transfer Application

Septic Tank Pumper Renewal Form - Word version

Septic Tank Pumper Renewal Form - PDF

Septic Pumper O&M Form

Minor Compost Facility O&M Form

Beneficial Reuse (BUD) Annual Reporting Form

Landfarm Annual Reporting Form

Septic Tank Pumper Vehicle Inspection Form

Septic Tank Pumper Reporting Form

Septic Tank Pumper Application Reporting Form

Septic Tank Pumper Holding Tank Reporting Form

Deed Note Form

Deed Note Example 1

Closed Deed Note Form

Reporting Forms

Fees:

Initial Hazardous Waste Generator Registration - $270.00, required upon submission of Notification of RCRA Subtitle C Activity Form (EPA Form 8700-12) for:

• Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) of hazardous waste,
• Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) of hazardous waste, and
• A site that is normally not a generator of hazardous waste but is currently generating hazardous waste as a Short-Term Generator.

Change of Activity Fee - $150.00, required upon submission of Notification of RCRA Subtitle C Activity Form (EPA Form 8700-12) for:

• Very Small Quantity Generators (VSGs) or Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) taking advantage of the episodic generator event provision in 40 CFR 262.232,
• Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) receiving waste from Very Small Quantity Generator(s) (VSGs) in accordance with 40 CFR 262.17(f), and
• Healthcare Facilities or Reverse Distributors operating under 40 CFR 266, Subpart P.

Please see the invoice for additional payment options regarding Initial Hazardous Waste Generator Registration and Change of Activity Fees.

General	Format
Instructions for RCRA Subtitle C Activity Form (EPA Form 8700-12)
Notification of RCRA Subtitle C Activity Form (EPA Form 8700-12)
RCRA Hazardous Waste Part A Permit Application (EPA Form 8700-23)
To obtain an EPA Identification Number, update existing facility information, notify of episodic generation, or notify as a healthcare facility subject to Subpart P, complete the EPA 8700-12 form listed above and submit to the Hazardous Waste Program at the address listed below, or to deqhazwaste@mt.gov or through myRCRAid (epa.gov).
Hazardous Waste Transporter	Format
Transporter Registration Form
Transporter Service List Form
Transporter Registration Termination Form
Halogenated Solvent User	Format
Halogenated Solvent User Registration

Please submit any completed forms to: 

Waste Management Bureau
Hazardous Waste Program
P.O. Box 200901
Helena MT 59620-0901

Email: deqhazwaste@mt.gov 

Please click here to download the free Adobe Reader to view PDF documents.

For Class A and Class B Operators use our free online Tank Helper  Training Course

Tank Helper

 Minimum Training Requirements and Training Options 

• Class A, B and C Training in Montana

Non-Permitted Tanks

New Owner of an Underground Storage Tank (UST) System Information

• New Owner Checklist

This is a short summary of information that you as a new owner need to know to successfully operate underground storage tanks in Montana. 

We can help you as the new owner with quite a few things concerning your underground storage tanks (UST’s). 

Here are some things you need to do:

• Fill out the 
• * Amended or Change of Owner form   to let us know that you are indeed the owner. This was to have been done within 30 days of purchasing property with underground tanks on it. 
•  If there are changes to facility/tanks or found tanks fill out this form:  Notification for Underground Storage Tanks form 
• Contact the Department of Revenue’s eStop program at https://svc.mt.gov/dor/eStopPortal/Default.aspx They have additional requirements for the ownership of UST’s. This is where you pay your annual tank registration fees.

•  Every three years you must have your tanks inspected – active or inactive. Click here for Montana's UST Inspector Reference Manual.  Compliance inspections  must be performed between 90 and 180 days before your expiration date. Keep in contact with your inspector.  A list of compliance inspectors is available at https://deq.mt.gov/files/Land/UST/Documents/MonthlyReportsPDF/LicensedComplianceInspectors.pdf.

• Click here to view Compliance Inspection Checklist to help you prepare for your next inspection and stay on track!

•  All facilities in Montana with UST systems must have at least one Class A, Class B, and Class C operator. Our free online Class A and B operator training is located at https://www.montanamoodle.org/?tenant=tankhelper2. If you have problems with Tank Helper, do not hesitate to contact us.

 In concurrence with the revised 2015 EPA UST Regulations, Montana has implemented several changes to UST operation, testing and inspection. These new changes are effective on October 13, 2021. The changes are:

1. Test or inspect following repairs to spill prevention equipment, overfill devices, and secondary containment areas
2. Use secondarily contained tanks and piping when installing or replacing these components
3. Use under-dispenser containment when installing new dispenser systems
4. Have trained class A, class B, and class C operators
5. Perform periodic testing of spill prevention equipment and containment sumps used for interstitial monitoring of piping
6. Perform annual testing of release detection equipment
7. Perform periodic inspections of overfill equipment
8. Perform periodic walkthrough inspections at the UST facility

•  The last five items are specific to owners and operators of UST facilities. There are several documents that will help with the new requirements. Here is a Class C operator training form to keep track of your Class C trained personnel. A Montana specific Monthly Walkthrough Inspection form is also required to be onsite and current.
•  Also, State regulations require Underground Storage Tanks (UST) owners and operators to demonstrate financial responsibility for the clean-up or third-party liability compensation that results from a petroleum release from UST systems. The form is available at https://deq.mt.gov/files/Land/UST/Documents/PDFfiles/CERTFR.pdf. You will need to show this to your compliance inspector.
•  A brief explanation of financial responsibility is available at https://deq.mt.gov/files/Land/UST/Documents/PDFfiles/FR%20brochure.pdf?ver=2021-03-16-155724-770. 

•  Montana UST Compliance Calendar for 2021-2022.
• New:  Montana UST Compliance Calendar 2022-2023 

NOTE: Montana law prohibits use of this information as a mailing list for unsolicited mass mailings, house calls or distributions or telephone calls. Section 2-6-109, MCA "Prohibition on distribution of mailing lists -- exceptions -- penalty," provides in relevant part as follows:

(1)(b) a list of persons prepared by the agency may not be used as a mailing list except by the agency or another agency without first securing the permission of those on the list.

(9) a person violating the provisions of subsection (1)(b) is guilty of a misdemeanor.

Proceed with downloading the following facility  information only after reading and understanding the restrictions on use of the information stated above.

Adobe Reader is required to view these files, you can download a free version online.

Tank Test Dates

• New:  Tank Test Dates for Facilities (provides dates testing was done for each facility) ***Note:  this is a tool and may not reflect testing that hasn't been reported or documented in the database.

 Facility Summary Sheets

•  All Facilities List   - updated monthly.

The individual county Facility Summary Sheets will be updated monthly. 

**Clarification on Energy Act Tanks and Facility Summary Sheet Information

Please email DEQUSTPROGRAM@mt.gov or call 444-5300 if you have questions.   

NOTE:  If a facility has not had an inspection, they will not be included in the summaries.   If you need information about one of these facilities, please use of the following tools to search for this facility:

• EPA UST Finder:  https://www.epa.gov/ust/ust-finder
• DEQ's GIS portal:  https://gis.mtdeq.us/portal/home/
• Facility tank count by active and inactive number of tanks  -  USTList.pdf (PDF format)

UST Notification and Registration

NOTE:  Montana law prohibits use of this information as a mailing list for unsolicited mass mailings, house calls or distributions or telephone calls. Section 2-6-109, MCA "Prohibition on distribution of mailing lists -- exceptions -- penalty," provides in relevant part as follows:

(1)(b) a list of persons prepared by the agency may not be used as a mailing list except by the agency or another agency without first securing the permission of those on the list.

(9) a person violating the provisions of subsection (1)(b) is guilty of a misdemeanor.

Proceed with downloading the following UST information only after reading and understanding the restrictions on use of the information stated above.

List of Federally Regulated UST systems, both active and/or inactive (download files do not include state regulated UST systems, e.g., underground piping associated with above ground tanks and USTs deregulated under Senate Bill 386 that do not meet the federal definition).
 

Facility tank count by active and inactive number of tanks  -  USTList.pdf (PDF format)  - updated monthly.

Public Record.pdf (PDF format) - updated December 23, 2022

For site-specific UST compliance information, please contact us by email  DEQUSTPROGRAM@mt.gov or call the office at (406) 444-5300.

UST Facility Operating Permit Status

For information on discovered tanks click here:  Discovered Tanks

To visit DEQ's GIS portal click here

EPA developed UST Finder, a web map application containing state-sourced national map of UST data:  Click here to go to EPA's UST Finder

For facility and tank information go to Facility Summary sheets:  All Facilities List    and also by individual county:  https://deq.mt.gov/twr/assistance#accordion4-collapse2. 

For a list of regulated systems go to: UST Facility Operating Permit Status List  -   Please note that dates for Inactive Facilities May Not Be Accurate.

For facility tank count by active and inactive number of tanks go to: -  USTList.pdf (PDF format)  

  Who does what with USTs at DEQ:

• Underground Storage Tank Section (USTS)- permitting of installations, modifications and closures; compliance with upgrade requirements and day-to-day operation and maintenance.
• Petroleum Release Section (PRS) - project management of leaks and spills.
• Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board (PTRCB)- Reimburses the cleanup costs for eligible facilities after 50% cost share of the first $35,000.00 in costs.

Non-regulated UST systems:

• Farm or residential tanks (often, heating oil) for consumptive use on the property and
• Less than 1,100 gallon capacity and
• Installed before April 27, 1995

Even though these tanks are not regulated, any contamination they may have caused is regulated. LET THE BUYER BEWARE

Regulated UST systems:

• Any commercial underground storage tank
• Any farm or residential underground storage tank installed after April 27, 1995
• Any underground piping attached to aboveground tanks

If the tanks are gone:

The possibility of contamination is the chief concern. If the USTs were registered with the department and properly closed, the UST section may have record of the tank removal and copies of the sampling results. If not, a Phase II site assessment conducted by an environmental consultant offers the best protection.

A site assessment is only as good as the sampling. If the contamination is found on the property, it won't matter what previous results indicated. The contamination will need to be cleaned up.

If the tank(s) are still there and are not operational:

If the property houses tanks that were not properly closed in place, the department will require the owner to pull them and sample for contamination.

Compliance with UST regulations should be considered when buying land. Yet the first concern remains "Is the ground or groundwater contaminated?" Compliance with closure requirements will not alter that ground truth.

If a release is discovered, compliance may impact access to Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Funds (PTRCF.) The UST section may be able to determine whether violations exist, but only the PTRCB can determine whether those violations impact eligibility.

In many cases, the UST section cannot determine from information in the file whether they regulate a tank system or whether it is in compliance. If the tank was not registered with the department or if use was discontinued before November of 1988, we may have no information about the tank at all.

When the department learns of a tank's existence we will require that it be permanently and properly closed and that the ground beneath it be sampled for contamination. The owner of the property will be responsible for cleaning up the contamination under the direction of the PRS. LET THE BUYER BEWARE

A found or non-notified tank is considered "active" until the owner asks the department in writing to place the system into inactive status. The owner then has 90 days to empty the tank and 12 months to permanently and properly close it. For more information about inactive status and the Inactive Status Form visit the Inactive Status page (scroll down to UST permitting, Closures, Inactive, and Installations and select Inactive Status, Permanent Closure, and Change in Service). PTRCB eligibility requires that an owner of a newly found tank submit a permit application to the UST section to pull the tank within 30 days of discovering it.

If the tank(s) are still there and operational:

The possibility of contamination should be considered. The owner of the property is responsible for cleaning up contamination regardless of who caused it and when. A Phase II site assessment conducted by an environmental consultant offers the best protection. LET THE BUYER BEWARE

Compliance issues at operational facilities are addressed through third-party Compliance Inspections and Operating Permits. Look to see when the Operating Permit expires on the following website, UST Facility Operating Permit Status.  

NOTIFICATION FORMS

• * New Facility or Changes to Facility/Tank or Found Tanks 
• * Amended or Change of Owner

  Click here to go the webpage for Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) list of all sites or all active sites

Information Requests

Request information or Submit Records Request regarding a UST Facility

Issuance of an operating permit is based on a compliance inspection that indicates that the UST is in compliance with Montana's operation and maintenance requirements.

Licensed private inspectors conduct the compliance inspections of operating underground storage tanks to determine compliance with spill, overfill, corrosion protection, release detection and recordkeeping requirements. They also verify that all tanks are registered, have the proper tags and operating permit, and meet upgrade requirements.

The department and designated local governmental unit inspectors will provide oversight of the licensed compliance inspectors.

Compliance Inspector Reference Manual

Compliance Inspector Reference Manual
 

Duties of Compliance Inspectors

Pre-Inspection

The inspector should be knowledgeable of a site before conducting the inspection. Important background information includes such things as

1. the exact site location,
2. the type of equipment in place (how many tanks, suction or pressure piping, type of overfill devices, etc.),
3. compliance history,
4. responsible party (owner vs. operator),
5. fee and registration status,
6. permit review/fee status (if applicable), and
7. on-site contact (essential for un-manned sites).

Inspection

All regulated underground storage tank facilities must be inspected every 3 years. The principal responsibilities of the compliance inspector during the inspection are to assess compliance with the following regulatory requirements:

1. UST registration/notification/tags;
2. UST upgrade requirements;
3. Leak detection system operation, maintenance, testing, recordkeeping; and
4. Corrosion system operation, maintenance, testing and recordkeeping.

Each inspector will be initially provided with several inspection forms. The inspection form will also be provided in electronic format. In addition to completing the inspection form, the inspector is expected to educate the owner or operator so that the facility's compliance is improved.  The inspector must review the inspection form with the owner/operator and discuss any violations or problem areas.

Post Inspection

Following an inspection, compliance inspectors must:

1. Immediately notify the Department of any release discovered during the inspection;
2. Identify methods to correct violations;
3. Obtain the owner's or operator's signature on the inspection report; and
4. Provide a copy of the inspection report to the DEQ within 10 days of the inspection date.

DEQ will review the inspection report and determine whether a violation has occurred. The inspector is expected to provide all reports to DEQ for this determination. The inspector may fix the deficiency and note it has been fixed on the inspection report. Inspections must be conducted at least 90 days before the expiration date of the operating permit to allow time to correct deficiencies. This correction timeframe should allow Petrofund eligibility to remain intact in most cases.

•  Basic UST Inspector Training (NEIWPCC)

Note:   Montana law prohibits use of this information as a mailing list for unsolicited mass mailings, house calls or distributions or telephone calls. Section 2-6-109, MCA "Prohibition on distribution of mailing lists - - exceptions - - penalty," provides in relevant part as follows:

• (1)(b) a list of persons prepared by the agency may not be used as a mailing list except by the agency or another agency without first securing the permission of those on the list.
• (9) a person violating the provisions of subsection (1)(b) is guilty of a misdemeanor.

Disclaimer:   This list was prepared as an information source only. No endorsement of these firms or their services is given or implied. There may be other firms offering these services which at the date of this listing were not known by this agency.

If you would like to have your name added, removed or modified on this list, please email the UST Program or call the Montana UST Program at (406) 444-5300.

Aboveground Storage Tank (AST) Regulations

• Montana DEQ UST program regulates storage tank systems that fit the legal definition of an underground storage tank.  That includes Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs) that have connected underground product piping.  If an aboveground tank has underground piping, it is treated as an Underground Storage Tank (UST) and would be subject to Montana UST regulations. However, it does not include farm or residential tanks or piping that were installed as of April 27, 1995 that have a capacity of 1,100 gallons or less that is used for storing motor fuel for noncommercial purposes or for storing heating oil for consumptive use on the premises where it is stored. Click here for definition of an UST.
• If the AST is completely above ground with above ground piping, then the AST is not regulated by the Montana DEQ UST program.  ASTs are required to meet the State/Federal/International Fire Codes set forth by the State Fire Marshal’s office. The State Fire Marshal’s Office can be contacted at (406) 791-2706. Cities and counties may also have regulations for ASTs so check with your local city and county for more information. Your local fire department, fire chief, or Deputy Fire Marshal is a good resource for the local regulations.
• Facilities with aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) holding oils of any kind may be subject to U.S. EPA's Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) regulation (40 CFR Part 112). The SPCC regulation does not specifically use the term AST, but rather includes ASTs under the term bulk storage container. 
• A bulk storage container is “any container used to store oil. These containers are used for purposes including, but not limited to, the storage of oil prior to use, while being used, or prior to further distribution in commerce. Oil-filled electrical, operating, or manufacturing equipment is not a bulk storage container.” Oil-filled equipment may also be subject to the SPCC regulation and should be included with the bulk storage container capacity when determining the facility’s overall aggregate oil storage capacity. For more information on whether SPCC applies to your facility or not,  go to:  https://www.epa.gov/oil-spills-prevention-and-preparedness-regulations/does-spill-prevention-control-and-countermeasure.
• Aboveground storage tanks interested in applying for cleanup assistance from the Montana Petroleum Tank Release Cleanup Fund (PTRCF) are required to be in compliance with  Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM) , Chapter 17, subchapter 58, including specifics for ASTs outlined in ARM 17.58.326. For more information on applying for the fund  click here. Below are PTRCF checklists that serve as road maps to compliance and gaining eligibility to the Fund.

• https://deq.mt.gov/files/DEQAdmin/PET/Documents/Forms/StorageTankChecklist.pdf
• https://deq.mt.gov/files/DEQAdmin/PET/Documents/Forms/HeatingOilChecklist.pdf

For more information on ASTs and PTRCF call (406) 444-9710 or email gpirre@mt.gov

•  ASTs must report all known or suspected leaks to the Petroleum Tank Cleanup Section:

You Must Obtain a Permit Prior to Conducting any UST System Work, Including Installation, Modification, or Closure

All permits are subject to and must follow Montana specific Critical Installation Requirements. In addition, detailed information can be obtained in the How to Submit a Completed Permit Application document.

• INSTALL
• Major Installation
• Minor Installation
• UST System Certificate of Compliance
  
  
  SUPPLEMENTS
• Supplement A - Tank Installation
• Supplement B - Pipe Installation
• Supplement C - Tank And Pipe Installation
• Supplement D - Modification Repair, Lining, or Investigating
• Supplement E - Corrosion Protection Installation
   
• CLOSURE
• Closure Permit
• UST System Closure Site Plan
• UST System Tank Piping Closure Form
• UST System Closure Check List Requirements 1.5 MB
• Certification of Compliance
  
  
  NEW FACILITIES
• Notification form
• Supplement C - Tank And Pipe Installation
• Environmental Assessment Questionnaire
• Environmental Assessment Continuation Sheet

• GUIDANCE FOR DISPOSAL OF WASTES ASSOCIATED WITH UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANK REMOVAL
• Guidance for Disposal of Waste

The following UST activities in Montana require a permit from DEQ (Note: This list is not all inclusive and if the action is not listed, contact the UST Program for guidance.)

•  Removing, closing in place, or changing in service of underground storage tanks or piping (product or vent)
• Working on an UST system that requires excavation or cutting the concrete. This includes work on tanks, piping(product or vent), corrosion protection, automatic tank gauge (ATG), interstitial sensors, monitoring wells, lining, proving structural integrity, risers, pipes, spill and overfill.
• Installing or changing an overfill device (i.e. drop tube shut off (flapper valve), overfill alarm). Includes removing ball float vent valve.
• Replacing or repairing a damaged spill bucket or spill containment that failed testing. Includes replacement of the primary and/or secondary of a spill bucket due to a failed spill bucket test. Replacement or removal of a spill bucket drain plug does not require a permit.
• Installing a straight drop tube. Note: replacing a straight drop tube requires a permit only if cutting the concrete or excavation is required.
• Reconstructing, abandoning, or closing leak detection monitoring wells. These wells are no longer an approved leak detection method after October 13, 2023.
• Installing an automatic tank gauge (ATG, an in-tank leak detection device) or interstitial sensors, whether or not the conduit and riser were previously installed.
• Installing heat-shrink sleeves or water-tight boots to risers or flex connectors for corrosion protection.
• Installing off-set sleeves to risers for corrosion protection. Offset sleeves must be non-corrodible.  (Offset sleeves do not provide corrosion protection for flex connectors.)
• Installing sacrificial anodes on risers or flex connectors for corrosion protection.
• Installing additional anodes or an impressed-current system on an existing UST system. This includes repairing or replacing components including rectifiers, wiring, anodes, etc.
• Installing dri-sump tubing and test equipment.
• Conducting an internal inspection (entering a tank) of a tank with the exception of using cameras.
• Replacing a UST system component with a different model component.
• Extending an existing vent standpipe.
• Containment sump repair or replacement including crack repair due to visual failure. This includes repair or replacement of product or electrical penetration fittings.
• Adding a solenoid or anti-siphon device.
• Installation of an auto-dialer.

The following UST activities do not require a permit but may require a Montana license to perform:

• Replacing a defective mechanical line leak detector with the same make and model device.
• Replacing a defective electronic line leak detector with the same make and model device.
• Testing tank tightness or line tightness testing.
• Testing line leak detector functionality.
• Testing piping to determine if it is U.S. Suction or safe suction.
• Replacing an existing straight drop tube (without flapper valve).
• Testing containment sump or interstitial sensor functionality.
• Testing of ATG functionality by factory trained technician.
• Replacing a drop tube overfill device with the same make and model. Replacing an existing overfill alarm with the same make and model.
• Testing of a CP system by a qualified CP tester.
• Adjusting of a CP system rectifier by a CP tester.
• Replacing a probe or sensor with the same model.
• Replacement or removal of a spill bucket drain plug.

*Note: This list is not all inclusive and if the action is not listed, contact the UST Program for guidance.

A permit is required from DEQ for the installation, repair or modification of underground storage tanks.

• Installation of leak detection systems including wells or corrosion protection systems requires a permit. 
• Modification, repair, or lining of an existing UST system also requires a permit. 
  Your licensed UST system installer or remover may assist you with obtaining the necessary permit, or you may begin the application process here:
  • • How to Submit a Completed Permit Application
    • Critical Installation Requirements
    • Found Tanks
    • Ethanol blends information for Montana 

These are the procedures owners/operators must follow to obtain approval to install or modify underground storage tanks and piping in Montana.

1. Obtain the services of a licensed installer, unless the owner/operator will conduct their own installation.

2. A permit application form must be completed by either the owner/operator or the licensed installer and returned with the appropriate permit review fee, to DEQ at least 30 days before the installation is scheduled to begin. If all of the information requested on the permit application is not provided or the permit fee has not been enclosed with the application, DEQ may return the application or place it on hold until all information is received. A returned or on-hold application will result in a delay in the permitting process.
   
   The permit fee can be calculated from the following fee schedule. Please enclose the appropriate fee with the application.
   
   All tanks . . . . . . . . . . . $100/permit + $.02 x total gallons installed and closed
   (Includes all commercial tanks, even if under 1,100 gallons, including used oil tanks)
   
   Piping only . . . . . . . . $50/50 feet, greater than 50 feet $100.00 unless piping permit is associated with a major permit application
   
   Minor Permit Applications. . . . . . . .$50 unless associated with a major permit application
   
   Repairs, modifications, lining, vapor or groundwater monitoring wells at existing installation, cathodic protection at existing installation, leak investigation. . . $100/permit
   
   Maximum permit fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $750
   
   Please make all checks and money orders payable to the Department of Environmental Quality - UST Section.
3. Owners/operators who are installing their own tanks and/or piping must arrange for a Department inspector to inspect their work. An inspection fee deposit of $90 must accompany the application and inspection dates must be tentatively scheduled on the application. The fee deposit is for a 2 hour inspection. The actual inspection fee will be the fee deposit plus a $45 per hour fee for all hours over 2 hours, including travel time and inspection time.
4. After the Department approves the application, the owner/operator will be issued a permit. The permit authorizes the installation of the tank/piping as described in the application; however, the permit may have special conditions written on it that must also be followed. A permit must be issued by the Department before installation begins.
5. A permit expires six months from its date of issuance.  If the work cannot be completed within that time frame, the department may issue a written extension upon request from the installer/remover.

Other considerations for installation:

1. The tank and piping system must meet all the design and leak detection requirements of the Montana Underground Storage Tank Rules and Regulations.  A permit application for the modification or installation of a cathodic protection system must be accompanied by designs prepared by a corrosion expert.
2. The tank and piping system must be tested and installed in accordance with Division VI of the Uniform Fire Code.
3. Installation procedures must also comply with all local permit requirements and local ordinances. Check with local health and fire departments prior to completing the permit application.
4. If the proposed installation is in an environmentally sensitive area (in, or close to, groundwater or porous soils, near private or public water wells, etc.), we recommend that the best available leak prevention systems be installed. This will help minimize the potential liability and cost of a leak in the future. These systems could include the use of double walled tanks, vaults or excavation pit liners with monitoring well and leak detectors.
5. If doing installation in an area with a high groundwater table, check with DEQ's Water Protection Bureau if you need a construction dewatering permit:  Construction Dewatering General Permits

If you need more information concerning the installation or modification of underground storage tanks and piping or have questions regarding the permit application procedure,  email the UST Program, or call the Montana UST Program at (406) 444-5300.

• Guidance for Disposal of Wastes Associated with Underground Storage Tank Removal
• Summary of Underground Storage Tank Systems Closure Requirements
• Closing Underground Storage Tanks: Brief Facts (EPA)
• List of Approved Analytical Labs

A permit is required from DEQ for the closure of underground storage tanks and piping

• Installation of leak detection systems including wells or corrosion protection systems requires a permit. 
• Modification, repair, or lining of an existing UST system also requires a permit. 
  Your licensed UST system installer or remover may assist you with obtaining the necessary permit, or you may begin the application process here:
  • • How to Submit a Completed Permit Application
    • Found Tanks

These are the procedures owners/operators must follow to remove or close underground storage tanks and piping in Montana.

1. Be sure that the tanks are registered with the Department. The owner/operator must be current for payment of registration fees before the permit will be issued.
2. Obtain the services of a licensed underground storage tank remover unless the owner/operator plans to close/remove the underground storage tank/piping himself.
3. A permit application form must be completed by either the owner/operator or the licensed remover, and be returned along with the appropriate permit review fee and inspection fee (if required) to DEQ at least 30 days before the closure/removal is scheduled. If all of the information requested on the permit application is not provided or the proper fees have not been enclosed with the application, DEQ will return the application or place it in an on-hold status. A returned or on-hold application may result in delay in the permitting process.
4. The permit fee can be calculated from the following fee schedule. Please enclose the appropriate fee with the application.
   
   All tanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100/permit + $.02 x total gallons closed
   (Includes all commercial tanks, even if under 1,100 gallons, including used oil tanks)
   
   Piping only . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 under 50 feet, $100 greater than 50 feet
   
   Maximum permit fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $750
   
   Please make checks and money orders payable to the Department of Environmental Quality.
    
5. Owners/operators who are closing/removing their own tanks must arrange for the local licensed inspector or a Department inspector to inspect their work. An inspection fee deposit of $90 must accompany the application and the inspection dates must be tentatively scheduled on the application. The fee deposit is for a two-hour inspection. The actual inspection fee will be the fee deposit plus $45 per-hour for all hours over two hours, including travel time and inspection time
    
6. After the DEQ reviews and approves the application, the owner/operator will be issued a permit. The permit authorizes the tank/piping removal as described in the application; however, the permit will have special conditions written on it that must be followed. A permit must be issued before removal/closure work starts.
   
   Part of the tank or piping removal/closure process includes conducting a site assessment to determine whether a release has occurred. This requires collecting soil or water samples that must be sent to a laboratory.  Specific requirements will be included on the permit.
7. In addition to meeting the EPA and Montana requirements for removals/closures, the procedures must also meet all requirements set forth in the Uniform Fire Code and be approved by the state and local fire officials. Tanks must be removed unless fire officials permit filling them in-place. If removal of the tank system is physically impossible or threatens adjoining structures, fire officials may permit filling the tanks and pipes in-place. Fire official approval is necessary prior to DEQ issuing a permit. A permit and site assessment are required regardless of closure method.
8. A permit expires six months from its date of issuance.  If the work cannot be completed within that time frame, the department may issue a written extension upon request from the installer/remover.
9. If doing a closure in an area with a high groundwater table, check with DEQ's Water Protection Bureau if you need a construction dewatering permit:  Construction Dewatering General Permits

CLOSURE PERMIT FORMS

• Closure Permit
• UST System Closure Site Plan
• UST System Tank Piping Closure
• UST System Closure Check List Requirements
• Certification of Compliance
• Guidance for Disposal of Wastes Associated With Underground Storage Tank Removal
• Summary of Underground Storage Tank Systems Closure Requirements
• List of Approved Analytical Labs

If you would like more information concerning permanent closure of underground storage tanks and piping, or have questions regarding the permit application procedure, email the UST Program, or call the Montana UST Program at (406) 444-5300.

To Place an Active UST system into Inactive Status

An owner or operator can place an UST system into Inactive Status by notifying the UST Section on the appropriate Notification of Inactive Status for Underground Storage Tanks Systems form that they have discontinued use of the system and wish the system to be considered inactive.

In addition, an owner/operator must:

• Empty the tank to less than 1 inch of product (release detection is required until tank has less than 1 inch of product),
• Cap and secure all product lines, sumps, manways, and ancillary equipment,
• Leave vent lines open and functioning,
• Continue to maintain corrosion protection (if applicable),
• Continue to pay annual tank registration fees,
• Continue to demonstrate financial responsibility by having the completed form on file at the facility,
• Continue to have a trained Class A, Class B, and Class C Operator, and 
• Conduct an inactive tank inspection every three years.

To Return an Inactive Tank System to Active Status

If an UST system has a valid Operating Permit and is in Inactive Status for 12 Months or Less

• An owner or operator must give the department 30 days advance written notice of intent to return the UST to Active Status.

If an UST system has a valid Operating Permit and is in Inactive Status for 12 Months or More

• An owner or operator must give the department 30 days advance written notice of intent to return the UST to Active Status, and;
• Request a One Time Fill Permit
• Perform a precision tank tightness test, line tightness tests and functionality tests of all mechanical and electronic release detection equipment, and submit all test results to the department. The owner or operator may return the UST system to active status only after the receipt of notice from the department indicating that the test results are satisfactory.

If an UST system does not have a valid Operating Permit and no more than 12 Months have passed since the expiration date of the last operating permit issued for the UST system

• An owner or operator must give the department 30 days advance written notice of intent to return the UST to Active Status, and;
• Obtain a Conditional Operating Permit from the department (expires 180 days later), and;
• Have a compliance inspection conducted between 90 and 120 days after the Conditional Operating Permit is issued.

If an UST system does not have a valid Operating Permit and more than 12 Months have passed since the expiration date of the last operating permit issued for the UST system

• An owner or operator must give the department 30 days advance written notice of intent to return the UST to Active Status, and;
• Request a One Time Fill Permit for testing purposes only, and;
• Perform a precision tank tightness test, line tightness tests and functionality tests of all mechanical and electronic release detection equipment, and submit all test results to the department. The owner or operator may return the UST system to active status only after the receipt of notice from the department indicating that the test results are satisfactory, and;
• Obtain a Conditional Operating Permit from the department (expires 180 days later), and;
• Have a compliance inspection conducted between 90 and 120 days after the Conditional Operating Permit is issued.

If an UST system does not have a valid Operating Permit and more than 3 years have passed since the expiration date of the last operating permit, and continuous operating and maintenance of corrosion protection cannot be demonstrated

• An owner or operator must give the department 30 days advance written notice of intent to return the UST to Active Status, and;
• Request a One Time Fill Permit for testing purposes only, and;
• Show that the UST is structurally sound based upon a program-approved integrity assessment, and;
• Perform a precision tank tightness test, line tightness tests and functionality tests of all mechanical and electronic release detection equipment, and submit all test results to the department. The owner or operator may return the UST system to active status only after the receipt of notice from the department indicating that the test results are satisfactory, and;
• Obtain a Conditional Operating Permit from the department (expires 180 days later), and;
• Have a compliance inspection conducted between 90 and 120 days after the Conditional Operating Permit is issued.

To Place a Tank System into Permanent Closure

At least 30 days before beginning permanent closure

• An owner or operator must give the department advance written notice of intent to to permanently close. A closure permit application is an acceptable notification;
• A closure permit may be obtained at DEQ, by calling (406)-444-5300, or email:  DEQUSTPROGRAM@mt.gov, and;
• Empty and clean the UST by removing all liquids and accumulated sludge. All tanks and connected piping must be removed from the ground or, if approved by the department, filled with an inert solid material. The department does not generally approve closure in place unless removal from the ground endangers adjacent structures, and;
• Conduct a site assessment in accordance with ARM 17.56.703.

Change in Service

Continuing use of an UST system to store a non-regulated substance is considered a change in service. After a change in service, the tank is no longer regulated. No further annual registration fees will be assessed. No compliance inspection is required

• To complete this procedure owners or operators must notify the department at least 30 days before making a change in service, and;
• Empty and clean the UST system by removing all liquid, accumulated sludge and all combustible and flammable vapors, and;
• Conduct a site assessment in accordance with ARM 17.56.703.