Underground Heating Oil Tank Cleanup Reimbursement Program
Underground Heating Oil Tank Cleanup Reimbursement Program helps current and former tank owners pay for cleanup of heating oil releases to address contamination of soil, groundwater, and surface water.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection
Due Dates: December 31, 2027 (Final deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $4,000 per tank after a $1,000 deductible; up to $750,000 annually for the program
Summary: Reimburses tank owners for eligible environmental cleanup costs resulting from heating oil releases from underground tanks.
Key Information: Tanks must hold 3,000 gallons or less and store fuel for heating on the premises.
Description
The Underground Heating Oil Tank Cleanup Reimbursement Program helps current and former tank owners pay for environmental cleanup following heating oil releases from underground tanks. Pennsylvania DEP’s Storage Tank Cleanup Program administers the reimbursement program, with funding from the Underground Storage Tank Indemnification Fund. It addresses contamination of soil, groundwater, and surface water rather than routine tank replacement or heating-system repairs.
Supported work includes excavating contaminated soil, recovering released oil, transporting and disposing of contaminated materials, and investigating contamination through soil borings or wells. Reimbursement can also cover water remediation systems, well-water treatment, absorbent booms in waterways, cleanup sampling, and basic restoration of affected areas. Removal or decommissioning of a leaking tank is eligible only when environmental cleanup work is also performed.
