Environmental Resources Management

Storage Tanks

A storage tank can be described as an enclosed stationary container or structure that is designed or used to store regulated substances. Storage tanks are commonly made from materials such as metals, fiber reinforced plastics and other plastics, and even concrete. Tanks can generally be divided into two categories depending on their location:

• Above-ground Storage Tanks (AST)
  less than ten percent beneath the surface of the ground
    
• Underground Storage Tanks (UST)
  ten percent or more buried beneath the surface of the ground

They commonly range in size from 110 to 10,000 gallons or more.

Fuel leaks from underground and aboveground storage tanks at gasoline stations and other facilities present a serious threat to the underground drinking water supply for Miami-Dade County. The Storage Tank Program's mission is to maintain the quality of Miami-Dade County’s groundwater resources by preventing leaks from storage tanks which hold hazardous materials. This goal is pursued through a comprehensive program of inspection, permitting, public education, and enforcement of state and local environmental regulations.

Please visit the Permits page to see which permits are necessary.