Report an underground petroleum storage system leak or spill
Leaks or spills from underground petroleum storage systems must be reported to the City of Sydney. Failure to report could result in penalties for corporations of up to $2 million and $500,000 for an individual.
Project Status: When you need to do this
A spill or leak is detected in line with the loss detection procedures contained in the Protection of the Environment Operations (Underground Petroleum Storage Systems) Regulation 2019.
- There is evidence of hydrocarbons in surface or groundwater.
- There is evidence that migration of hydrocarbons could occur.
Under the Contaminated Land Management Act 1997, a person’s activities that have caused contamination must notify the NSW Environment Protection Authority as soon as possible.
What you need to do
You must download the form below, complete and lodge the leak notification form immediately when a leak or spill is detected from an underground petroleum storage system.
These storage systems are generally found at service/petrol stations but can also be at car dealerships, mechanical garages, golf courses, depots and airports.
Current exemptions
- Above ground storage tanks and liquefied petroleum gas tanks are not included in the regulation.
- Local councils can issue exemptions in their local area under a specific clause.
Important resources
The NSW Environment Protection Authority provides resources on how to appropriately manage underground petroleum storage systems.
It’s also created an informative course relevant to both the regulatory authority and persons responsible for managing underground petroleum storage systems.
Public health & safety programs