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.

Notification is required when:

• Starting a new underground storage tank facility
• Installing or modifying tanks or piping
• Changing or amending facility, tank and/or ownership information
• Placing a tank into inactive or active status
• Changing the tank product
• Tanks are found

New System/Facility

• Notification of Underground Storage Tanks (New System)

Facility Changes - complete within 30 days

• Notification of Underground Storage Tanks (Facility Change)
• Notification of Inactive Status

New or Change of Owner

We can help you as the new owner satisfy all requirements.  In short, must fill out required forms, pay registration fees, meet compliance and complete regular inspections, have a permitted operator, and demonstrate financial responsibility.

• New or Change of Owner Checklist
• Amended of Change of Owner Form (complete within 30 days)

Tank Product Change - complete within 30 days

• Product Type Change Notification Form

Change of Service

• 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.

Discovered Tanks - notify within 30 days (fill out both forms)

• PTRCB Discovered Tanks
• NotificationofUndergroundStorageTanks

In order to get your operator permit, tank registration fees must be paid. Please visit the Montana Department of Revenue's eStop program to pay registration fees.

To contact eStop Business Licenses:

• Email: dorestop@mt.gov
• Phone: 406-444-6900
• Fax: 406-444-7723

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 will provide oversight of the licensed compliance inspectors.

Monthly and annual walkthrough inspections are required.

• Compliance Inspection Checklist
• Monthly Walkthrough Inspection Form
• Compliance Inspectors List
• New Deadlines for Montana UST Rules

Looking for Compliance Guidance and Forms?

Minimum Training Requirements and Training Options 

• Class A, B and C Training in Montana

Free online TankHelper Training course for Class A and Class B Operators:

TankHelper

• TankHelper instructions
• Locate your corrective action training

Class C Operator Training

Owners or Operators of underground storage tank systems must obtain the services of a licensed UST system installer or remover for any installation, modification, or closure (removal) work.

• Installers/Removers
• Remover Only

Some underground storage tank maintenance tests may be performed by individuals without Montana-specific licenses.

• Line and Tank Tightness Testers: A periodic test of piping may be conducted only if it can detect a 0.1 gallon per hour leak rate at 1.5 times the operating pressure.
• Tank Tightness Testers: Tank tightness testing must be capable of detecting a 0.1 gallon per hour leak rate from any portion of the tank that routinely contains product while accounting for the effects of thermal expansion or contraction of the product, vapor pockets, tank deformation, evaporation or condensation, and the location of the water table.
• Ameron/Smith Certification List 

Note: Montana law prohibits use of this information as a mailing list for unsolicited mass mailings, house calls or distributions or telephone calls.

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.

Corrosion Protection

If your UST system, or any part of it, is protected by either sacrificial anodes or an impressed current system, the cathodic protection system must be tested at least every three years to make sure it is functioning properly. The required tests can be conducted by a qualified cathodic protection tester who will take soil potential readings, as directed by DEQ, and provide the tank owner with the results. The results should be kept at the facility.

Designers

• Cathodic Protection Designers

Testers

• Cathodic Protection Testers

If you would like to have your name added, removed or modified on these lists, please email the UST Program or call (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
• 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.

Requirements

• 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.
• Obtain the services of a licensed underground storage tank remover unless the owner/operator plans to close/remove the underground storage tank/piping.
• 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.
• 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.
• After 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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

Forms

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

Place a Tank System into Permanent Closure

Notify DEQ 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.
• 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.
• Conduct a site assessment in accordance with ARM 17.56.703.

State regulations (Title 17, Chapter 56, Subchapter 8, Administrative Rules of Montana) 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.

Who must demonstrate financial responsibility? 

• Owners or operators of petroleum UST systems must demonstrate financial responsibility for taking corrective action and for compensating third parties.

What UST systems require demonstration of financial responsibility? 

• Financial responsibility requirements apply to underground tanks and piping storing petroleum.

There are two categories of exclusions that are listed below:

• State and federal owned UST systems,
• Tanks excluded under ARM 17.56.102(2),(3),(4),(5) or (6).

Elements of Financial Responsibility (FR)

There are four primary elements that make up the financial responsibility requirements for Underground Storage Tank (UST) Systems. Owners or operators must demonstrate each of the following elements:

• Financial Responsibility mechanism: This is the financial assurance option selected by owners/operators.
• Amount of financial responsibility: This is the amount of coverage required that depends on the tank operator,  number of tanks covered and name of issuer and mechanism number (if applicable).
• Scope of financial responsibility: This is the financial responsibility mechanism that must cover the required categories of obligations and releases (e.g., corrective action and third-party compensation) and period of coverage.
• Certification: This is the documentation that demonstrates the correct financial responsibility mechanisms, coverage amount and scope sufficient.

Financial Responsibility (FR) Types of Mechanisms

• Financial Test of Self Insurance: A firm with a tangible net worth of at least $10 million may demonstrate FR by passing one of the two financial tests listed in the Montana Administrative Rules.
• Guarantee: You may secure a corporate guarantee from another eligible firm. The provider of the guarantee must pass one of the financial tests listed in the Montana Administrative Rules.
• Insurance Coverage and Risk Retention Group Coverage: You may buy insurance from an insurer or a risk retention group.
• Surety Bond: You may obtain a surety bond that is a guarantee by a surety company that will satisfy FR obligations if the person who obtained the surety bond does not.
• Letter of Credit: You may obtain a letter of credit that obligates the issuer to provide funding for corrective action and third-party compensation. If selecting this type, must also have a standby trust fund.
• Montana Petroleum Tank Cleanup Fund: Petroleum Tank Release Cleanup Fund is a state-funded program.
• Trust Fund: You may set up a fully funded trust fund administered by a third-party to pay for corrective action and third-party claims.
• Standby Trust Fund: Standby trust that uses one of these assurance mechanisms (guarantee, surety bond or letter of credit) to fund the trust.

Amounts Required and/or Paid 

Owner/Operator:

1) Must have valid operating permit if using Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board (PTRCB) funding
      a) And must be in full regulatory compliance to receive full reimbursement
      b) If not in full regulatory compliance for *period of:
           i) 1-30 days – 90 percent reimbursement
           ii) 31-60 days- 75 percent reimbursement
           iii) 61-90 days – 50 percent reimbursement
           iv) 91-180 days – 25 percent reimbursement
           v) Greater than 180 days = No reimbursement
2) CO-PAY: If checking PTRCB must have other mechanism(s) checked to cover the co-pay requirement of $17,500 and costs in excess of $1 million
     a) If checking Letter of Credit, must also check and have Standby Trust Fund

• for period explanation see ARM 17.58.336 (7)

PTRCF

1) Must meet Owner/Operator requirements listed above
2) PRTCF covers:
      a) Per Occurrence:
           i) 50 percent of the first $35,000 of eligible costs and 100 percent of subsequent eligible costs, up to a maximum total reimbursement of $982,500 for occurrences of a release.
           ii) 50 percent of the first $10,000 of eligible costs and 100 percent of subsequent eligible costs, up to a maximum total reimbursement of $495,000 for all tanks storing heating oil for consumptive use on the premises.
      b) Annual Aggregate:
           i) Federal Requirement:   <= 100 tanks $1 million, OR > 100 tanks $2 million
           ii)  The PTRCF covers each release or occurrence for $1 million less the required copay, without any aggregation (excluding tanks that are storing heating oil that is being consumed on the premises).

Scope of Financial Responsibility

Obligations 

• Accidental: Owner/Operator must be able to cover all UST system releases classified as accidental, as opposed to intentional releases.
• Sudden and Non-Sudden: Owner/Operator must be able to cover both sudden and non-sudden UST system releases.

Releases

• Corrective Action: FR must address both on and off site corrective action due to UST system releases.
• Third-Party Compensation: FR mechanism must cover both bodily injury and property damage claims from third parties as a result of UST system releases.

Certificate of Financial Responsibility

• Montana Certificate of Financial Responsibility - this must be completed and kept on file at the facility. It will be reviewed by the inspector at your regularly scheduled inspection.

Financial Statement Forms

• Business Tangible Net Worth
• Tangible Net Worth for Sole Proprietorship

Other Coverage

Farm, Residence or Heating Oil Tanks

Tanks on farms, residences or used for heating oil and that are <= 1,100 gallons

• 100 percent eligible for costs up to $500,000 if properly designed and have double-walled system with release between 10/01/1993 to 10/01/2009, or
• Owner needs $5,000 co-pay, then PTRCB pays 50 percent of first $10,000 and 100 percent of costs up to $495,000

Financial Responsibility Mechanisms for Local Governments

Local governments may use the financial responsibility mechanisms available to other owners and operators. However, they have the option of using four additional mechanisms that have been tailored to their characteristics.

• Bond Rating Test: A local government may demonstrate (or guarantee) financial responsibility by passing a bond rating test.
• Financial Test: A local government may demonstrate (or guarantee) by passing a financial test.
• Guarantee: A local government may obtain from another local government or the State of Montana.
• Dedicated Fund: A local government may demonstrate (or guarantee) financial responsibility by establishing a fund.

More Info on Financial Responsibility

• Dollars and Sense (EPA)
• Financial Responsibility for Underground Storage Tanks: A Reference Manual (EPA)
• List of Known Insurance Providers for Underground Storage Tank Owners and Operators (EPA)

Buyer disclaimer:

• When a person buys property, they are buying responsibility for any existing contamination as well.
• Verify that all fees for your site are up to date with EStop. 
• Check with you lender on Environmental Site Assessments.  

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.

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 Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board (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 Petroleum Tank Cleanup Section.

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. Visit Inactive Status to learn more. 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.

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, residential tanks, or piping 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. Review the definition of an UST per the MCA.
• 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. 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, visit EPA's website.
• 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, visit the Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board's webpage. Review the PTRCF checklists that serve as road maps to compliance and gaining eligibility to the Fund below.

• Storage Tank Checklist
• Heating Oil Checklist

For more information on ASTs and PTRCF, call (406) 444-9710.

Notice: 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.

•  Clarification on Energy Act Tanks and Facility Summary Sheet Information
• All Facilities List

Can't find the facility you are looking for? Visit Mapping Resources & Tank Status.

DEQ licenses individuals as Compliance Inspectors, Installer/Removers, Removers, and Cathodic Protection Installers. To pay your licensee renewal fee online, visit the eBill Payment Service.

License Application Materials

The forms below can be filled out online and sent electronically to DEQ.

• UST Compliance Inspector Application
• UST Compliance Inspector Reference Form
• UST Installer/Remover or Remover License Application
  
• UST Cathodic Protection Installer Application
• UST Installer/Remover/CP Reference Form

To become a licensed Compliance Inspector, an individual must:

1. Submit a completed application to DEQ.
2. Submit three references
3. Submit an application review fee of $100
4. Complete an inspector training course approved by DEQ (for example, UST Boot Camp or Alternative to UST Boot Camp) that includes training in the operation and maintenance of release detection, corrosion protection, spill and overfill equipment; regulatory compliance; and field testing of inspection abilities. If the applicant possesses a Montana UST Installer License, this license meets the inspector training course requirement.
5. Pass a written exam with 80% or better
6. Pass a field practical exam with 80% or better

Duties of Compliance Inspectors

Pre-Inspection

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

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)
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
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
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.

• Compliance Inspector Study Guide Recommendations

To become a licensed Installer/Remover, an individual must:

1. Submit a completed application to DEQ showing that the individual has actively participated in at least three UST system installations and two underground storage tank closures. 
2. Submit an application review fee of $100
3. Submit three references attesting to the individual’s participation in UST installations and closures.
4. Pass a written exam with 80% or better.

• Installer Study Guide Recommendations

To become a licensed Remover, an individual must:

1. Submit a completed application to DEQ showing that the individual has actively participated in at least three underground storage tank closures.
2. Submit an application review fee of $100
3. Submit three references attesting to the individual’s participation in UST closures
4. Pass a written exam with 80% or better.

Written exams are administered by the UST Program in Helena, Montana. Please contact our office for more information.

• Remover Study Guide Recommendations

To become a licensed Cathodic Protection Installer, an individual must:

1. Submit a completed application to the Department of Environmental Quality showing that the individual has actively participated in at least three underground storage tank closures.
2. Submit an application review fee of $100
3. Submit three references attesting to the individual’s participation in UST CP projects
4. Pass a written exam with 80% or better.

• Cathodic Protection Installer Study Guide Recommendations

CECs

At the end of the triennial period in 2024 (03/01/2021 through 2/29/2024), license renewal will require documentation that you have the following DEQ-approved continuing education hours:

• Compliance Inspectors and Installer/Removers must complete at least two DEQ-approved or sponsored continuing education courses for a total of 16 credit hours (8 credit hours must be a DEQ-sponsored refresher training course).
• Remover licenses must complete one DEQ-sponsored refresher training course for a total of 4 credit hours.

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.

You must obtain a permit prior to conducting any UST system work, including installation, modification, and repair.

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.

• Permit Checklist

New Facility Installation:

• New Facility Permit Application
• Environmental Assessment Questionnaire
• Environmental Assessment Continuation Sheet

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

These procedures must be followed to obtain approval to install or modify underground storage tanks and piping in Montana:

• Obtain the services of a licensed installer, unless the owner/operator will conduct their own installation.
• 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.
• 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.
• Please make all checks and money orders payable to the Department of Environmental Quality - UST Section.
• 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.
• 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:

• 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.
• The tank and piping system must be tested and installed in accordance with Division VI of the Uniform Fire Code.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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, contact the UST program.

Dri Sump

• Dri-Sump Directions and Form

Low Level Sump

All Low Level containment sump testing requires DEQ UST program approval before testing.

The licensed individual must submit an electronic request to DEQ at:  DEQUSTProgram@mt.gov and wait for a program response. The licensee is not approved to conduct low level sump testing until DEQ UST program staff provides an approval email back to the licensed individual. However, if you are unable to contact DEQ due to a holiday or weekend, review the Certification For Performing Low Level Containment Sump Testing to see if you are able to proceed.

All sump testing is required to be completed by a state licensed individual.

• Low Level Sump Testing Procedure
• Low Level Sump Testing Form

Important: The sumps must meet the conditions specified in the “Low Liquid Level UST Containment Sump Testing Procedures” guidance document to use this test method and comply with the requirements of 40 CFR 280.35(1)(ii)(C). If the sumps do not meet these requirements, you may not conduct low level sump testing. You must answer yes to all of the questions below before proceeding:

1. Are all liquid sensors mounted and remain located at the lowest point in each containment sump?
2. Has the functionality of each liquid level sensor been tested in conjunction with the low-level sump test and verified that each sensor works correctly and shuts down the appropriate pump or dispenser?
3. Does the pump automatically shut off when liquid activates the sensor? Or does the dispenser automatically shut off when liquid activates the sensor, AND the facility is always staffed when the pumps are operational?
4. Are the sensors programmed to both alarm and shut down when in contact with any liquid?

Test date data may not be accurate. This report only shows data that has been received by DEQ and entered into the database.

• Facility testing dates