Oil Tanks & Permits
Does Your Property Have an Oil Storage Tank?
Many homes built between the 1920s and 1960s used underground oil tanks for heating. These tanks typically last 20 to 25 years and can leak once they deteriorate, causing environmental damage and costly cleanup.
Signs you may have an underground tank include:
- A filler pipe sticking out of the ground;
- A vent pipe at the side of the house;
- A metal pipe cap in the yard;
- A sunken or depressed area on your lawn;
- Rainbow coloured sheen on puddles after rain (oil floats on water).
What homeowners should do if an underground tank is suspected to be present
- Hire a qualified Oil Tank Contractor to confirm whether a tank exists.
- If a tank is found, a removal or abandonment permit is required from New Westminster Fire & Rescue Services.
- Before a permit is issued, contact the Planning Department at City Hall to determine if a Tree Protection Approval Permit is needed.
- After acquiring the Tree Protection Approval Permit (or confirmation that none is required), the contractor can visit Fire Hall #1 at 1 East 6th Avenue to obtain the oil tank permit. Call 604-519-1000 to book an appointment.
- Permit fee: $105.00 plus GST (Cash or Cheque only)
Important Notes for Property Owners
- Complete documentation per the Oil Tank Permit is required for New Westminster Fire & Rescue Services to update the tank status on record.
- New Westminster Fire & Rescue Services is not responsible for soil conditions or contamination from fuel storage tanks.
- New Westminster Fire & Rescue Services does not interpret environmental reports or metal detection scans.
If you have questions, contact or 604-519-1000.
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