Oregon DEQ Issues New Rules for UST Contractors — Effective July 1, 2025
On May 8, 2025, the Oregon Environmental Quality Commission adopted major updates to the Oregon Administrative Rules governing UST contractors. These new requirements, found in Chapter 340, Division 160, go into effect July 1, 2025, and will significantly impact how underground storage tank (UST) services are performed, documented, and approved in the state.
New Work Practices for UST Service Providers
Under OAR 340-160-0021, the updated rules establish mandatory work practices for licensed UST Service Providers, including:
Advance notification to DEQ is required before starting any UST service
Notifications must include manufacturer certifications for all equipment being installed or tested
Approval from DEQ is required before proceeding past defined stages of installation, modification, repair, or decommissioning
Test results must be submitted to DEQ following service completion
What Service Providers Must Now Do
For any scheduled UST service, contractors must follow a more structured and accountable process:
Notify DEQ at least three days in advance of any testing, repairs, or other regulated service activity
Submit manufacturer certifications for all equipment used — especially for repairs or replacements
Perform the work as scheduled only after required approvals are obtained
Notify DEQ of any issues identified during testing or service
Upload completed test results to the Your DEQ Online (YDO) portal immediately after the work is done
This process applies to nearly all UST-related services, including installations, system modifications, testing events, and decommissionings. The goal is greater transparency, traceability, and accountability across the state’s regulated fuel infrastructure.
New Requirements for Repairs During Testing
If a repair is needed during a test event, the following additional rules apply:
Repairs must be completed by a licensed UST Service Provider with a Testing or Installation/Retrofit License
Manufacturer certification is required for any replacement parts or equipment
Common examples include:
Leak detector replacement
Sensor or probe swap-outs
Spill bucket patching
All repairs must be followed by additional testing:
Line tightness testing for equipment connected to piping
Leak detector testing for any piping repairs
Webinar Recording Will Be Available
DEQ held a public webinar on June 25, 2025, to review these changes. A recording of the session will be made available soon on the DEQ website. In the meantime, the full June 2025 Tankline Bulletin outlines these updates in detail:
📄 Click here to download the official bulletin (PDF)
What This Means for UST Service Providers
If you perform testing, installations, or repairs on regulated UST systems in Oregon, these rule changes require significant operational adjustments. Expect increased documentation, stricter timelines, and additional DEQ oversight. Noncompliance may result in service delays or enforcement actions.
What This Means for UST Owners and Operators
While the rule changes focus on Service Providers, UST Owners and Operators will still be affected, including:
Longer lead times as contractors coordinate required DEQ notifications and approvals
Potential service delays if DEQ does not authorize work to continue
Accountability for results — as the responsible party, you must ensure tests are completed and submitted properly
How PASS Symphonics and PASS Harmonics Support Oregon’s New Rule
At PASS Training & Compliance, we offer two solutions to help our partners succeed under evolving UST regulations:
PASS Symphonics – For UST Service Providers
Automates DEQ notifications and documentation
Tracks test results, retesting, and repairs
Ensures all certifications are submitted and organized
Keeps your technicians on track with state-specific compliance workflows
PASS Harmonics – For UST Owners & Operators
Provides full visibility into testing and inspection activity
Alerts you when compliance tasks are missed or delayed
Stores historical documentation tied to each UST site
Helps you stay ahead of regulatory deadlines
As Oregon tightens its rules, your success will depend on coordination, communication, and clean recordkeeping. PASS is here to help.
Have questions about the new rules or how to prepare?
