How to dispose of an underground tank
Larger underground tanks used to store propane for household consumption pose a disposal challenge due to their size. In Ontario, a licensed propane supplier in your area is the only contractor that can replace or remove your underground propane tank. The supplier has the tools, equipment and resources to safely remove any remaining propane from the tank and haul it away. Selling it for scrap usually isn’t a viable option, as most metal scrap yards won’t take large propane tanks due to the potential hazards. As removal costs can vary substantially from one supplier to another, your best bet is to contact the Canadian Propane Association for a list of suppliers in your area and shop around.
Another option for many homeowners is having your supplier depressurize the tank, recover any residual propane and fill it with sand or water. This provides a more practical and cost-effective alternative.
Although there are more factors involved in having an underground tank, if it’s installed and maintained properly, you shouldn’t have any problems…out of sight, out of mind!
Regulations
The storage, transportation, handling and use of propane is regulated by a variety of Acts and Regulations within Federal, Provincial, and Territorial jurisdictions. Each jurisdiction in Canada interprets and adopts national regulations and codes according to its mandate and authority. For specific and up-to-date information pertaining to your jurisdiction, it is important to consult the regulatory authority in your area for complete details.
For more information on the Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000, ONTARIO REGULATION 211/01 PROPANE STORAGE AND HANDLING, click here.