Yes, owning a tank in Colorado is legal but tightly controlled under state and local laws, requiring permits, inspections, and adherence to environmental codes. The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) and county health departments enforce strict storage, handling, and disposal rules, particularly for hazardous materials. Recent 2026 amendments to the Hazardous Materials Act tighten secondary containment requirements for above-ground storage tanks (ASTs), mandating spill prevention systems for tanks over 500 gallons.
Key Regulations for Owning a Tank in Colorado
- Permitting & Registration: All tanks storing hazardous substances (e.g., petroleum, chemicals) must register with CDPHE’s Storage Tank Program and obtain local permits. Underground storage tanks (USTs) face additional federal EPA oversight under 40 CFR Part 280.
- Inspection & Maintenance: Tanks require periodic integrity testing (e.g., API 653 for ASTs) and leak detection systems. Colorado’s 2026 Tank Integrity Rule imposes annual inspections for tanks in high-risk zones (e.g., floodplains, groundwater recharge areas).
- Zoning & Local Ordinances: Counties like Denver and Boulder impose extra restrictions, including setback requirements, fire code compliance (e.g., IFC Chapter 57), and buffer zones near residential areas. Violations trigger fines up to $10,000 per day under the Colorado Water Quality Control Act.