Underground Storage Tank Cleanup Fund
🏛 State Water Resources Control Board (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Sep 13, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for petroleum underground storage tank (UST) owners and operators in California who need financial assistance with cleanup costs. Small businesses and individuals can apply if they operate USTs that have leaked or require remediation. The fund helps applicants meet federal and state financial responsibility requirements and covers cleanup expenses related to unauthorized petroleum releases. Applicants must be able to demonstrate ownership or operation of the affected UST.
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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 operation
- Documentation of unauthorized petroleum release or contamination
- Itemized cleanup cost estimates or invoices
- Environmental site assessment or remediation report
- Financial responsibility documentation
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 operate a UST in California with a documented petroleum release or cleanup need.
What expenses does the fund cover?
Cleanup and remediation costs related to leaking or unauthorized petroleum releases from USTs. Expenses must be directly tied to bringing the UST into compliance.
Is there a deadline to apply?
This is a rolling program with no fixed deadline. You can submit applications as the fund is available, though funding is limited.
How much can I receive?
Awards vary, but the total program is capped at $1,000,000. Individual award amounts are not specified but depend on cleanup scope and costs.
Is cost-sharing required?
No. This program does not require matching funds or cost-sharing from applicants.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Document all cleanup expenses carefully with receipts and contractor invoices. The fund reimburses documented costs only.
- Apply early in the funding cycle. Rolling programs distribute funds on a first-come, first-served basis until money runs out.
- Prove you own or operate the UST with legal documentation. Clear ownership or operational status is required for reimbursement.
- Work with a qualified environmental contractor. Professional remediation and documentation strengthen your application.
- Include evidence of the unauthorized release or contamination. Lab results and environmental reports demonstrate the cleanup need.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Submitting inadequate documentation of cleanup costs or contractor invoices. Failing to clearly establish ownership or operational responsibility for the UST. Applying without evidence of the actual petroleum release or contamination.
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