(a) Removal of Abandoned Storage Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids.
(1) Underground storage tanks for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids which have been inoperative or abandoned shall immediately be put in a "temporarily out of service" condition.
(2) Tanks rendered "temporarily out of service" shall have the full line, gage opening and pump suction capped and secured against tampering.
(3) Underground storage tanks for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids which have been inoperative or abandoned for a period of three months shall be emptied of their contents and the tanks shall be filled with water to the satisfaction of the Fire Prevention Bureau.
(4) Underground storage tanks for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids which have been inoperative or abandoned for a period of six months shall be removed from the ground and the excavation filled to the satisfaction of the Fire Prevention Bureau.
(5) Underground storage tanks for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids on premises that are to be converted to another occupancy other than one utilizing the tanks, shall be removed from the ground and the excavation filled to the satisfaction of the Fire Prevention Bureau.
(6) After removal from the ground, the tanks shall be removed from the premises immediately or if left on the premises, the tanks shall be immediately purged or rendered free of all gases.
(b) Welding or Cutting. No cutting torch or other flame or spark-producing equipment shall be used on any abandoned or removed tank until such tank has been completely purged or otherwise rendered safe.
(c) Tanks that are Junked. If a tank is to be disposed of as junk, it shall be retested for flammable vapors and, if necessary, rendered gas free. After junking and before releasing to junk dealer, a sufficient number of holes or openings shall be made in it to render it unfit for further use.
(d) Records and Notification. In all cases where tanks are to be rendered "temporarily out of service" or are to be removed, the Chief of the Fire Prevention Bureau shall be promptly notified and the following records shall be kept:
(1) Tank size.
(2) Location of tank.
(3) Tentative date of removal.
(e) Tanks that are Reused. Tanks that have been placed out of service must be tested if they are to be placed back in service. The test shall be a hydrostatic pressure test with circulation. A copy of the test results shall be furnished to the Fire Prevention Bureau before the tank is placed back in service. A permit shall be applied for and granted prior to the tank being filled with product.
(Ord. 1981-14. Passed 3-10-81.)