AB 1566 Summary

• Expands definition of "aboveground storage tank" to include tanks located in underground areas (basements, vaults, pits) that meet specific containment and inspection requirements.

• Requires Unified Program Agencies (UPAs) to implement aboveground storage tank regulations in accordance with rules adopted by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, and authorizes the office to adopt implementing regulations and establish an advisory committee.

• Establishes civil penalties up to $5,000 per day for violations (up to $10,000 per day for repeat violations) and creates new administrative penalties of up to $5,000 per day (up to $10,000 for repeat violations).

• Creates new criminal misdemeanor penalties for knowingly violating spill prevention, tank facility statement filing, or spill reporting requirements after reasonable notice.

• Excludes tanks in underground areas subject to aboveground storage tank regulations from underground storage tank requirements, and increases capacity threshold for exempt emergency generator tanks in below-grade structures from 1,100 gallons to less than 1,320 gallons.