In Texas, underground storage tank removals are regulated activities that require careful planning, environmental oversight, and proper documentation. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has established clear requirements to ensure tank systems are removed safely and that any potential releases are identified and addressed.
Understanding these requirements—and completing accurate Release Determination Report (RDR) reporting—is essential for regulatory compliance and long-term site protection.
Under TCEQ rules (30 TAC Chapter 334), storage tanks must be properly removed when they are no longer in service, structurally unsound, or required by regulatory directive. During removal, the tank system must be evaluated for evidence of a release to soil or groundwater.
Key Texas requirements include:
These steps help determine whether the site can achieve clean closure or if further investigation is required.
In Texas, RDR documents whether a release has occurred at a regulated storage tank site. This report is a required submittal to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality following tank removal activities.
An RDR typically includes:
Submitting a complete and accurate RDR helps TCEQ determine the regulatory status of the site and whether additional action is necessary.
Environmental oversight during tank removals is strongly recommended—and often critical—to meeting TCEQ expectations. Oversight professionals ensure:
This level of oversight helps prevent delays, rework, or enforcement issues later in the process.
If analytical results or field observations indicate a release, the site may be entered into TCEQ’s corrective action process. Early identification during tank removal allows for:
Catching issues early often reduces overall project cost and limits long-term liability.
Tank removals and RDR reporting are more than check-the-box requirements—they are a critical part of environmental risk management in Texas. A proactive, well-documented approach helps property owners, operators, and developers move forward with confidence while staying aligned with TCEQ regulations.
Partnering with an experienced environmental team ensures tank removals are handled correctly from excavation through final regulatory closure.
With decades of experience supporting tank removals across Texas, Talon/LPE provides end-to-end environmental oversight, sampling, and RDR reporting aligned with TCEQ requirements. Our team works alongside contractors and site owners to ensure tank removals are completed safely, documented thoroughly, and positioned for regulatory closure—helping clients reduce risk, avoid delays, and move forward with confidence. Reach out to Talon/LPE today!