It is strictly regulated.
Hawaii permits private tank ownership only under stringent state and county permits, with 2026 updates tightening environmental compliance. Federal EPA rules apply, but Hawaii’s Department of Health (DOH) enforces additional safeguards against soil and water contamination. Violations risk fines up to $10,000 per day under Hawaii Revised Statutes §342H-14.
Key Regulations for Owning a Tank in Hawaii
- Permitting: All tanks require DOH approval under Hawaii Administrative Rules §11-235, including secondary containment and leak detection systems. County fire departments may impose additional structural inspections.
- Storage Limits: Aboveground tanks exceeding 60 gallons or underground tanks of any size trigger DOH’s Underground Storage Tank (UST) Program, mandating corrosion protection and financial responsibility coverage.
- Prohibited Locations: Tanks may not be sited within 100 feet of potable water sources or floodplains, per Hawaii Revised Statutes §342H-22. Violations void insurance and void permits retroactively.
Non-compliance with DOH’s 2026 Tank System Integrity Rules (effective July 1, 2026) may result in permit revocation and mandatory tank removal. Consult the DOH Solid and Hazardous Waste Branch for site-specific assessments before acquisition.