Delaware Underground Oil Tank Removal Guide

Delaware's UST regulations are found in 7 DE Admin Code 1351: • **Registration** - USTs must be registered with DNREC • **Closure procedures** - Specific requirements for tank closure • **Certified contractors** - Must use DNREC-certified companies • **Soil sampling** - Required during closure • **Cleanup standards** - DNREC remediation standards apply • **Notification** - DNREC notification required

Northern Delaware has the most buried tanks: • **Wilmington area** - Many older homes with tanks • **Newark/Bear** - Suburban homes from 1950s-1970s • **Real estate impact** - Tanks commonly found in transactions • **Proximity to PA** - Some contractors serve both states • **Groundwater** - Important water resource protection

Delaware tank removal follows DNREC requirements: 1. **DNREC notification** - Required before removal 2. **Certified contractor** - Must be DNREC-certified 3. **Permits** - Local permits as needed 4. **Tank removal** - Per DNREC procedures 5. **Soil sampling** - Required sampling protocol 6. **Lab analysis** - DNREC-approved lab 7. **Results review** - Compare to standards 8. **Remediation** - If needed based on results 9. **Closure report** - Submit to DNREC 10. **Documentation** - Keep records

When contamination is found: • **DNREC notification** - Required for releases • **HSCA program** - Hazardous Substance Cleanup Act may apply • **Remediation standards** - DNREC cleanup criteria • **Professional oversight** - May be required • **Cleanup completion** - Documentation needed