Massachusetts UST Removal: MassDEP Compliance Guide

Massachusetts regulates underground storage tanks under 527 CMR (fire safety) and 310 CMR 80 (UST systems). Key requirements: • **Registration** - Certain tanks must be registered • **Closure standards** - Proper decommissioning required • **21E liability** - Property owner liability for contamination • **Licensed Site Professionals** - LSPs oversee contaminated sites • **Notification** - MassDEP notification for releases • **MCP compliance** - Massachusetts Contingency Plan governs cleanup The LSP program allows private-sector professionals to manage site cleanup.

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 21E creates broad liability: • **Strict liability** - No fault required for cleanup responsibility • **Current owners** - Responsible even for previous owner's contamination • **Prospective purchaser** - Protection available with proper due diligence • **Cleanup costs** - Owner typically responsible • **Lender concerns** - Banks scrutinize tank issues Understanding 21E liability is crucial before purchasing property with known or suspected tanks.

Standard Massachusetts tank removal follows these steps: 1. **Hire qualified contractor** - UST removal experience required 2. **Local permits** - Fire department and municipal permits 3. **Tank closure** - Removal preferred over abandonment in place 4. **Soil assessment** - Sampling during removal 5. **Laboratory analysis** - MassDEP-certified laboratory 6. **Comparison to standards** - MCP Method 1 or risk-based 7. **LSP engagement** - If contamination found 8. **Response actions** - Cleanup as needed 9. **Closure documentation** - For property records 10. **Release tracking** - RTN assigned for releases

The Boston metro area has specific challenges: • **Dense development** - Access issues for tank removal • **High property values** - Significant financial implications • **Older triple-deckers** - Common to find buried tanks • **Urban fill** - May complicate contamination assessment • **Multiple properties** - Contamination can cross property lines