Underground Storage Tank Cleanup Fund
🏛 State Water Resources Control Board (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Oct 4, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for petroleum underground storage tank (UST) owners and operators who need financial assistance for cleanup costs. Small businesses and individuals can apply if they own or operate petroleum USTs and face cleanup expenses from leaking tanks. The fund helps meet federal and state financial responsibility requirements. Applicants must be in California, where the State Water Resources Control Board administers the program.
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Program description
The UST Cleanup Fund provides a means for petroleum UST owners and operators to meet the federal and state requirements of maintaining financial responsibility to pay for damages arising from unauthorized releases from their petroleum USTs. The Fund assists a large number of small businesses and individuals by providing reimbursement for expenses associated with the cleanup of leaking USTs.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Proof of UST ownership or operator status
- Documentation of unauthorized release or tank contamination
- Cleanup expense receipts and invoices
- Project budget and cost breakdown
- Evidence of compliance with state registration requirements
Program contact
- 📧 Bridget.Freeborn@waterboards.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-341-5771
Funding track record
Past applications & awards under this program (California Grants Portal) — how competitive it is.
By fiscal year
| Fiscal year | Applications | Awarded | Award rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-2024 | 38 | 18 | 47% |
| 2024-2025 | 18 | 11 | 61% |
| 2022-2023 | 50 | 14 | 28% |
| 2020-2021 | 35 | — | 0% |
| 2021-2022 | 35 | — | 0% |
| 2025-2026 | 23 | 15 | 65% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Petroleum UST owners and operators, including small businesses and individuals. You must be responsible for a leaking or contaminated petroleum UST.
What expenses are covered?
The fund reimburses costs associated with cleanup of leaking underground storage tanks. Specific eligible expenses should be confirmed with the program.
Is this a rolling deadline?
Yes, the program operates on a rolling basis. Applications are typically accepted on an ongoing basis rather than specific dates.
How much funding can I receive?
Awards range up to $1,000,000, though actual awards depend on cleanup costs and available funding.
Do I need to provide matching funds?
No cost-sharing is required to apply for or receive this funding.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Document all cleanup expenses carefully with invoices and contractor quotes. The program reimburses actual costs.
- Contact the State Water Resources Control Board early to understand the application process and timeline.
- Ensure your petroleum UST is properly registered and that you meet all state compliance requirements.
- Gather evidence of the unauthorized release and tank ownership to support your reimbursement request.
- Submit a clear project budget that itemizes cleanup activities and associated costs.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Incomplete documentation of cleanup expenses leads to delayed reimbursement. Failing to demonstrate actual tank ownership or operator responsibility disqualifies applications. Missing evidence of unauthorized release or tank malfunction weakens claims.
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