How many days prior must the DEQ be notified before permanently closing a UST system?

The correct number of days prior to permanently closing a UST system that the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) must be notified is 30 days. This requirement is in place to ensure that regulatory agencies have adequate time to monitor and oversee the closure process, which includes evaluating potential environmental impacts, facilitating necessary inspections, and ensuring compliance with all relevant closure procedures.

By notifying the DEQ 30 days in advance, operators help protect the environment and public health by allowing the agency to prepare for the decommissioning process, including reviewing closure plans and confirming that all necessary protocols will be followed. This timeframe is designed to ensure that potential issues can be addressed before the closure occurs, thus minimizing risks associated with underground storage tanks.

In contrast, different timeframes like 15, 45, or 60 days do not align with the established guidelines, which specify the 30-day notification period as the standard to ensure effective communication and compliance with safety and environmental regulations.