Apply for Aboveground Storage Tank Permits

Next steps for Apply for Aboveground Storage Tank Permits

1. New aboveground storage tank permits

   You need an AST permit for:

   • all new construction
   • new installations of ASTs (including relocated tanks and installation of used tanks).

   Applications must include:

   • Completed application for installation or construction
   • Plot plan reviewed by a MA professional engineer
   • Foundation plan reviewed by a MA professional engineer
   • Dike plan reviewed by a MA professional engineer
   • Mechanical tank drawings reviewed by a MA professional engineer
   • Fire safety analysis reviewed by a MA professional engineer.The analysis is only for flammable gases, or where required by the State Fire Marshal.
   • You need a detailed inspection investigation and suitability assessment report for used tanks. A professional Massachusetts engineer must review the report.
   • Copy of manufacturer's Data Report for Pressure Vessels (if applicable)
   • Copy of the land license (MGL C 148 s.13) if applicable
   • Copy of the current registration for the property (MGL C 148 s.13) if applicable
   • Identification and declaration of approved standard. This is used for the inspection and maintenance of the tank
   • The State Fire Marshal may need more information
   • Fee

   Submit three sets of the application and attachments.

   We will return incomplete applications to you without review.

   The Office of the State Fire Marshal reviews applications before issuing permits. Reviews take up to 30 days.

   If we approve your application, you will receive a permit to construct the tank with specific requirements.

   Installation must start within 6 months and be complete within one year.

   Open PDF file, 309.8 KB,  FP-101 Application for Construction and Installation (English, PDF 309.8 KB)

2. Obtaining a use permit

   Provide documentation to the Office of the State Fire Marshal after the tank is:

   • constructed or installed,
   • and tested.

   We conduct an inspection. If the tank passes the inspection we will issue a use permit that is good for 5 years.

   If the local fire department also signs off on applicable permits, you can begin to use your tank.

3. Regular tank inspections

   Tank owners are required to inspect and maintain tanks in accordance with the approved standard.

4. Renewing AST use permits

   Renew AST use permits every 5 years. 

   Submit an application to renew the AST use permit and fee:

   • $30 for one tank
   • $20 each for two tanks
   • $15 each for three tanks of a gross capacity of < 1 million gallons
   • $25 each for three tanks of a gross capacity of > 1 million gallons

   In November 2020, the State Fire Marshal’s Office will start sending reminders to renew Use Permits. Notices will go to  AST owners and operators 45 days before a Use Permit expires. To renew a Use Permit, submit an AST Inspection and Renewal Form with the associated fee.

   Open PDF file, 432.34 KB,  AST Declaration of the Approved Standard Letter (English, PDF 432.34 KB)

   Open PDF file, 153.01 KB,  FP-101A Approved Standard Declaration Form (English, PDF 153.01 KB)

   Open PDF file, 495.89 KB,  FP-102 AST Use Permit Renewal Form (English, PDF 495.89 KB)

   Open PDF file, 187.33 KB,  FP-111 AST Content Descriptions & Categories (English, PDF 187.33 KB)

5. Apply for an AST maintenance permit

   For certain types of work on existing tanks, you must apply for a maintenance permit. The types of work include the installation, removal, replacement or penetration of any:

   • shell plate,
   • annular plate ring material,
   • tank bottom,
   • roof or weld joint

   which involves the repair, replacement or installation of any materials larger than 12 inches, or the jacking or movement of any existing tank.

   Maintenance does not include:

   • routine painting,
   • routine cleaning,
   • removal of superficial oxidation incidental to painting,
   • cleaning or dismantling of a tank done with a valid permit issued by the head of the fire department.

   Cutting a hole in a tank to limit the amount of available storage is not considered maintenance.

   The application form is currently under development.