Tank Degassing Page

This page provides information to businesses that are required to degas their tanks per APCD Rule 343.  For downloading instructions, see How to View and Download Documents.

Basic Information

What is degassing?  Degassing is the removal of organic gases from stationary tanks, containers, or pipelines. Fluids that are degassed include gasoline and crude oil.

Who can degas tanks?  A company permitted with the APCD may degas tanks.

Is a permit needed for tank removal?  An APCD permit is not needed for removing a tank. 

But if you are removing or performing maintenance on a tank…  Your tank needs to be degassed per Rule 343 for:

• any underground storage tank with a capacity greater than 500 gallons storing liquids having a vapor pressure greater than 3.9 psia
   

• any above-ground storage tank with a capacity greater than 40,000 gallons containing liquids having a vapor pressure greater than 2.6 psia
   

• any above-ground storage tank with a capacity between 20,000 and 40,000 gallons containing liquids having a vapor pressure greater than 3.9 psia at oilfields and pipeline stations

Tank Degassing FAQ

List of Companies that Have Degassing Permits

These are the following companies who have permits to degas tanks in Santa Barbara County:

Another company (or the permitted source) may be hired to degas but they must first obtain a permit from the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (SBCAPCD) which may take more time.

For more information or assistance in North County, contact Craig Strommen at  (805) 614-6786. For information or assistance in South County, contact Brian Shafritz at (805) 961-8823.

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