Clarification on Requirements for New Dispenser and Under-Dispenser Containment Areas
Sept. 2020 – Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requirements apply to Underground Storage Tank (UST) facilities that install or replace dispensers to comply with Europay, Mastercard and Visa (EMV) protection on card readers.
If you own or operate a gas station that is planning to replace dispensers to comply with the liability shift for EMV protection on credit and debit card readers, TCEQ has additional regulations that apply to the installation of new dispensers or new equipment.
A dispenser is considered new when the dispenser AND any transitional equipment connecting the dispenser to the UST system are installed or replaced. This transitional equipment includes check valves, shear valves, unburied risers or flexible connectors, or other transitional components that are underneath the dispenser and connect it to the underground piping.
Additionally, if your installation meets the definition of a new dispenser, you will also need a liquid-tight under-dispenser containment area (containment sump) that is inspected annually and tested for tightness at installation, and every three years there-after.
You can find all of the rules for USTs in Title 30 Texas Administrative Code (30 TAC) Chapter 334 . The UST definitions for these terms are in 30 TAC 334.2 and the new equipment regulations are in 30 TAC 334.45 and 30 TAC 334.46 . Find additional information in the Petroleum Storage Tank (PST) Super Guide, Installing a New or Replacement Underground Storage Tank RG-475b.
If you have any questions about this information, please e-mail us at TexasEnviroHelp@tceq.texas.gov or call the Small Business and Local Government Assistance Hotline at (800) 447-2827.