What is the UST Cleanup Fund?
The Underground Storage Tank Cleanup Fund is a reimbursement program established in California for owners and operators of underground storage tanks that have leaked. The program assist with the costs of investigating and cleaning up contaminated soil and groundwater caused by leaking petroleum tanks. The Fund also provides coverage for third-party liability due to releases. The Fund is generated through a per gallon fuel storage fee paid by all current UST owners. This fee, which began on January 1, 1991, is generating in excess of $170 million annually. To be eligible to file a claim against the Fund, a person must be a current or past owner or operator of a petroleum underground storage tank which has released petroleum and which is subject to state regulation. Owners of small home heating oil tanks which have released petroleum are also eligible. Other eligibility conditions include compliance with applicable state permit requirements and regulatory agency cleanup orders. The maxim
