California APSA and SPCC Requirements

The California Above Ground Petroleum Storage Act (APSA) applies to facilities with greater than 1320 gallons of petroleum stored in containers 55 gallons or larger. Large petroleum tank facilities, facilities with large stationary diesel powered generators, vehicle repair shops, and vehicle fueling facilities that store fuel in above ground tanks are typically subject to APSA. Above ground petroleum storage has been regulated under the Clean Water Act of 1973; under 40 CRF Part 112. In 1989, California adopted the the language of 40 CFR part 112 as the Aboveground Petroleum Storage Act. Originally, the UPAs (Unified Program Agencies) and the State Water Resource Control Board (SWRCB) were tasked with enforcement and administration. However, budget constraints in 2002-2003 terminated joint enforcement activities. In 2008, AB 1180 transferred APSA enforcement and administration to UPAs. In 2012, California Assembly Bill 1566 transferred oversight responsibility to the State Fire Marshal. Under this new arrangement, enforcement and administration are still conducted by local UPAs.

• Local UPA
• State Water Resource Control Board
• Department of Toxic Substances Control Board (If tank stores a hazardous waste)
• California Air Resources Board (If tank stores gasoline)
• Local Air District (If tank stores gasoline)

If a facility has  more than 1320 gallons of above ground petroleum storage in containers with shell capacities of 55 gallons or larger, it is subject to California APSA compliance.

Required tasks

• Complete APSA Tank Facility Statement from template and submit to CERS.
• Prepare/review Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC).
• Conduct monthly SPCC Inspections.
• Conduct annual SPCC inspections.
• Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC) technical amendment.
• 5-Year Re-certification.
• APSA Employee Training (Yearly).

What to expect during an inspection