Florida aboveground fuel tank requirements

Florida DEP has a dedicated AST rule

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection identifies Chapter 62-762, Florida Administrative Code, as its AST program. It generally covers regulated-substance aboveground storage tank systems with individual tank capacities greater than 550 gallons, subject to specific exceptions. Do not apply this threshold indiscriminately to every product or tank type.

State tank rules are not the same as fire approval

Florida's Fire Prevention Code and local fire officials govern separate fire-safety and siting questions. A tank that fits an environmental program category still needs its location, dispensing system and installation details reviewed where required.

Check the active rulemaking

Florida DEP posted 2026 rule-development materials for Chapter 62-762. Draft proposals are not automatically in force; verify the adopted rules and effective dates before basing an equipment purchase or permit application on proposed changes.

Example: emergency generator diesel storage

For a stationary generator tank serving a commercial building, identify the owner/operator, individual tank capacity, contents, piping and any connected day tank. Start with DEP's tank-system applicability and exemption guidance, and separately obtain the local fire official's requirements for generator fuel equipment, installation and access. Emergency use does not by itself establish a blanket exemption.

Questions to resolve before ordering

Is this stationary or mobile storage? Does the substance fall under the DEP regulated-substance definition? Is any specific exclusion documented? Who is responsible for registration, testing, ongoing inspection and closure? Confirm the adopted rule version—not a pending proposal—with DEP and the local authority.

What to prepare

Identify the regulated substance, tank size, stationary versus mobile use, location, containment method, piping, dispensing, registration route, local fire authority and operating/closure responsibilities.

Do not assume

A tank of 550 gallons or less is not automatically exempt from every fire, spill-prevention or local approval obligation. The specific environmental program exception must not be confused with a universal permit exemption.

Primary sources

• Florida DEP — Storage Tank Rules and Forms
• Florida DEP — Financial Responsibility and Tank Scope
• Florida DEP — 2026 Rulemaking