Yes, owning a tank in Wyoming is generally legal but subject to stringent state and local regulations. The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (WDEQ) enforces compliance with environmental and safety standards, while municipal ordinances may impose additional restrictions. Recent 2026 amendments to WDEQ’s Aboveground Storage Tank (AST) rules tighten inspection protocols, requiring biennial integrity testing for tanks exceeding 1,100 gallons. Fire safety codes, enforced by local jurisdictions, often mandate secondary containment and spill prevention measures. Violations may result in fines or mandatory decommissioning, underscoring the need for proactive compliance.
Key Regulations for Owning a Tank in Wyoming
- Environmental Compliance: Tanks storing hazardous materials (e.g., petroleum, chemicals) must register with the WDEQ’s Underground Storage Tank (UST) Program or AST Program, depending on configuration. Registration fees vary by tank size and content, with annual reporting obligations for regulated substances.
- Safety and Structural Integrity: The 2026 WDEQ amendments require ASTs to undergo visual inspections every two years and hydrostatic testing every five years. Tanks must meet NFPA 30 or API 650 standards, with corrosion protection mandatory for steel tanks. Local fire departments may conduct unannounced inspections under the International Fire Code (IFC).
- Zoning and Land Use: Municipalities like Cheyenne and Jackson impose setback requirements, noise ordinances, and aesthetic restrictions (e.g., camouflage for military-style tanks). Commercial zones often prohibit residential storage of large tanks without conditional use permits. Violations may trigger cease-and-desist orders or forced removal.