Yes, owning a tank in Montana is generally legal but subject to stringent state and local regulations. The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) governs tank ownership under the Underground Storage Tank (UST) Program, while the Department of Transportation (MDT) oversees highway transport tanks. Recent 2026 amendments to MCA 75-11-501 require all tanks over 1,100 gallons to register with DEQ, irrespective of content. Local fire codes and zoning ordinances may impose additional restrictions, particularly in residential areas.
Key Regulations for Owning a Tank in Montana
- Registration and Permitting: All tanks exceeding 1,100 gallons must be registered with the Montana DEQ under the 2026 UST Program updates. Failure to register risks fines up to $10,000 per violation.
- Location Restrictions: Tanks may not be installed within 100 feet of public water supplies or 50 feet of property lines without a variance from the local fire marshal.
- Inspection and Maintenance: DEQ mandates annual leak detection systems inspections and triennial structural integrity assessments for all regulated tanks. Non-compliance triggers immediate decommissioning orders.
Federal EPA standards (40 CFR Part 280) apply to tanks storing hazardous substances, while the MDT enforces design specifications for transport tanks under MCA 61-10-103. Municipalities like Billings and Missoula impose supplementary fire code requirements, including secondary containment for tanks holding flammable liquids. Violations of local ordinances may result in citations from the Montana Office of State Fire Marshal.