Aboveground Storage Tank (AST) System Design

CORE Environmental Consultants provides full-service Aboveground Storage Tank (AST) system design services for the safe storage, distribution, and management of petroleum products and hazardous substances. Our designs meet the rigorous standards of NYSDEC, EPA, NFPA, and local fire codes—ensuring that every system is fully permitted, functionally sound, and environmentally secure.

We support tank system upgrades, replacements, new installations, and secondary containment solutions for commercial, institutional, and industrial facilities that store fuel for heating, emergency power, or fleet operations.

When Is AST Design Required?

AST system design is essential when:

• Installing or replacing tanks ≥110 gallons in New York State
• Developing fuel storage for boilers, generators, or vehicles
• Converting from underground to aboveground fuel storage
• Modifying or expanding existing petroleum storage infrastructure
• Ensuring compliance with 6 NYCRR Part 613, NFPA 30, or SPCC planning
• Preparing a Brownfield or redevelopment site where new tank infrastructure is required
• Integrating storage systems into sitewide stormwater, spill prevention, or fire protection plans

Failure to properly design and document AST systems can lead to violations, fuel releases, insurance issues, or costly retrofits.

CORE’s AST Design Services

Our design and compliance services cover all phases of the AST lifecycle, including:

• System layout planning for fuel storage, delivery, and usage points
• Code-compliant tank selection (UL-142, UL-2085, double-wall, fire-rated)
• Containment and spill control system design (e.g., dikes, curbing, vaults, drains)
• Venting, overfill, and leak detection system specification
• Piping design, including day tanks, fill ports, remote fill lines, and valves
• Structural support and anchoring requirements
• Pad, slab, or platform design for stability and access
• Fire separation and tank spacing evaluation per NFPA 30/30A
• Preparation of construction documents, specifications, and tank shop drawings
• Permitting support, including PBS registration, Fire Department submissions, and SPCC updates
• As-built verification and final compliance certification

We ensure your AST system meets both regulatory and operational needs—without overdesigning or compromising safety.

Our Design Process

1. Site Evaluation and Regulatory Review
   CORE evaluates space constraints, tank purpose (emergency, heating, etc.), spill potential, and permitting conditions to identify system requirements.
2. Preliminary Design and Coordination
   We develop concept layouts and coordinate with architects, mechanical engineers, or contractors to integrate the AST into the overall site or building plan.
3. Detailed Design and Specifications
   Our engineering team prepares CAD drawings, component specs, and secondary containment calculations, ensuring conformance with regulatory codes.
4. Permitting and Approvals
   CORE prepares and submits permit applications to NYSDEC, local building/fire departments, and coordinates plan review meetings if required.
5. Construction Support and Commissioning
   We assist with vendor selection, contractor coordination, and construction-phase questions. Post-installation, we verify that the system matches plans and regulatory expectations.

Regulatory Standards We Follow

Our AST designs comply with:

• 6 NYCRR Part 613 – Petroleum Bulk Storage (PBS)
• EPA 40 CFR 112 – Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC)
• NFPA 30 and 30A – Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code
• UL-142, UL-2085 – AST Construction Standards
• IBC/IFC requirements for commercial fuel storage
• Local Fire Code requirements for AST installations and protection zones
• SPDES permits, where ASTs may impact stormwater control or containment

CORE designs are always ready for regulatory review and long-term inspection compliance.

✅ Why CORE?

✔ Engineering with Compliance in Mind
We don’t just design tanks—we design them for your permits, inspectors, and ongoing compliance needs.

✔ Site-Specific, Scalable Designs
Whether you need a 275-gallon heating oil tank or a 10,000-gallon diesel system, CORE provides scalable design solutions tailored to your space and usage profile.

✔ Integrated Compliance and Permitting
Our team ensures tank registration, SPCC planning, and fire safety approvals are built into the design process from the start.

✔ Hands-On Construction Support
We remain involved through installation, helping your team interpret specs, solve field issues, and verify final system performance.