Underground Storage Tank Cleanup Fund
🏛 State Water Resources Control Board (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Nov 1, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for petroleum underground storage tank (UST) owners and operators in California who need to cover cleanup costs from leaking tanks. Applicants must demonstrate financial responsibility requirements under federal and state law. The fund reimburses expenses for authorized UST remediation and environmental response. Small businesses and individuals are eligible to apply.
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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 release/leak event
- Detailed expense receipts and invoices
- Environmental assessment or remediation report
- Evidence of financial responsibility compliance
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 UST Cleanup Fund reimbursement?
Petroleum UST owners and operators in California who meet financial responsibility requirements. Both small businesses and individuals are eligible.
What expenses are covered?
The fund reimburses costs directly tied to cleanup of leaking petroleum USTs. Contact the State Water Resources Control Board for the specific cost categories.
Is this a rolling deadline?
Yes, applications are accepted on a rolling basis. There is no single application deadline.
How much can I receive?
Awards range up to $1,000,000. Actual award amounts vary based on project scope and available funding.
Is cost-sharing required?
No, cost-sharing is not required to apply for or receive reimbursement from this fund.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Document all expenses related to your UST cleanup with receipts and invoices before submitting. - Confirm your UST meets the definition of a "petroleum" tank under state regulations. - Contact the State Water Resources Control Board early to understand which costs are reimbursable. - Keep detailed records of any spills or releases, including dates and initial responses taken. - Submit your application promptly once you have complete documentation; funding is awarded on a rolling basis.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applications rejected when cleanup began before financial responsibility was formally triggered. Missing required documentation of expenses or proof of tank ownership. Attempting to claim costs for non-petroleum USTs or non-remediation activities.
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