Yes, owning a tank in Mississippi is generally legal but subject to stringent state and local regulations. The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) enforces compliance with federal and state laws, including the Mississippi Underground Storage Tank (UST) Regulations, which align with the EPA’s 2026 UST deadline for upgrades. Local fire marshal approvals and zoning ordinances may impose additional restrictions, particularly for non-residential or high-capacity tanks.
Key Regulations for Owning a Tank in Mississippi
- UST Compliance: All underground storage tanks (USTs) must meet MDEQ’s 2026 upgrade deadlines, including secondary containment, leak detection, and corrosion protection systems. Failure to comply risks enforcement actions or financial penalties.
- Above-Ground Storage Tanks (ASTs): ASTs are regulated under Mississippi’s Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) rules, requiring spill prevention plans and secondary containment for tanks over 1,320 gallons.
- Local Permitting: Municipalities like Jackson or Gulfport may impose additional zoning or fire safety requirements. Consult the local fire marshal and planning department before installation.
Ownership of military surplus tanks (e.g., M1 Abrams) falls under federal and state firearms laws, requiring ATF compliance and potential local permits. Always verify tank type and intended use to avoid misclassification under hazardous materials regulations.