Underground Storage Tank Cleanup Fund
🏛 State Water Resources Control Board (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Oct 7, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for petroleum underground storage tank (UST) owners and operators who need to cover cleanup costs for leaking tanks. Small businesses and individuals can apply. The fund reimburses expenses for UST contamination cleanup and environmental remediation. Applicants must be responsible for a petroleum UST and have documented cleanup expenses.
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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
- UST Contamination Documentation
- Proof of Ownership/Operator Status
- Detailed Cleanup Cost Documentation
- Cleanup Contractor Estimates or Invoices
- Environmental Assessment Report
- Application Form
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 qualifies for UST Cleanup Fund reimbursement?
Owners and operators of petroleum underground storage tanks can apply. The fund primarily supports small businesses and individuals managing contaminated sites.
What expenses does the fund cover?
Reimbursement covers cleanup and remediation costs associated with leaking petroleum USTs. Documentation of actual expenses is required.
Is this a rolling deadline?
Yes, applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Check the State Water Resources Control Board website for current submission guidance.
How much funding can I receive?
Awards range up to $1,000,000, though typical awards vary based on cleanup scope and costs.
Do I need matching funds?
No cost-sharing is required. The fund covers eligible cleanup expenses directly.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Document all cleanup expenses carefully with invoices and contractor quotes. Poor record-keeping is a top rejection reason.
- Contact the State Water Resources Control Board early to confirm your site and expenses are eligible.
- Include a clear timeline showing when contamination was discovered and remediation steps taken.
- Work with environmental consultants familiar with California UST regulations to strengthen your application.
- Submit applications promptly under rolling deadline; funding pool may deplete as awards are made.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Submitting incomplete documentation of cleanup costs. Applying without first confirming site eligibility. Underestimating project scope and needing additional funding later.
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