This chapter is promulgated under the authority of chapter 90.76 RCW and establishes a statewide underground storage tank program that is intended, at a minimum, to meet the legislature's intent to:

(1) Address the serious threat to human health and the environment posed by leaking underground storage tanks containing petroleum and other regulated substances;

(2) Meet the requirements for delegation of the federal underground storage tank program of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, as amended (42 U.S.C. Sec. 6901 et seq.);

(3) Be consistent with and no less stringent than the requirements in the federal regulations and the Underground Storage Tank Compliance Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 15801 et seq., Energy Policy Act of 2005, P.L. 109-58, Title XV, Subtitle B); and

(4) Allow for the establishment of local requirements more stringent than the statewide requirements to protect environmentally sensitive areas.

The requirements of this chapter apply to all owners and operators of an UST system, except as otherwise provided in this section.

(1) Exempt UST systems. The following UST systems are exempt from all of the requirements of this chapter:

(a) Any UST system holding hazardous wastes subject to Subtitle C of the Solid Waste Disposal Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 6921 through 6939e), or a mixture of such hazardous waste and other regulated substances;

(b) Any wastewater treatment tank system that is part of a wastewater treatment facility regulated under Section 307(b) or 402 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. Sec. 1317(b) or 1342);

(c) Any storage tank situated in an underground area (such as a basement, cellar, vault, mineworking, drift, shaft, or tunnel) upon or above the surface of the floor so that routine physical inspection of the exterior of the tank is possible;

(d) Any UST system used solely for heating structures on the property where the system is located;

(e) Any farm or residential UST system with a capacity of one thousand one hundred gallons or less used for storing motor fuel for noncommercial purposes;

(f) Any UST system with a capacity of one hundred ten gallons or less;

(g) Any UST system that contains a de minimis concentration of regulated substances;

(h) Any emergency spill or overflow containment UST system that is expeditiously emptied after use;

(i) Any equipment or machinery that contains regulated substances for operational purposes such as hydraulic lift tanks and electrical equipment tanks;

(j) Any flow-through process tank;

(k) Any septic tank;

(l) Any stormwater or wastewater collection system;

(m) Any surface impoundment, pit, pond, or lagoon;

(n) Any liquid traps or associated gathering lines directly related to oil or gas production and gathering operations; and

(o) Any pipeline facility (including gathering lines):

(i) Which is regulated under 49 U.S.C. chapter 601; or

(ii) Which is an intrastate pipeline facility regulated under state laws as provided in 49 U.S.C. chapter 601, and which is determined by the Secretary of Transportation to be connected to a pipeline, or to be operated or intended to be capable of operating at pipeline pressure or as an integral part of a pipeline.

(2) Partially exempt UST systems.

(a) The following UST systems are partially exempt and subject only to the requirements of this chapter specified in (b) of this subsection:

(i) Any wastewater treatment tank system not regulated under Section 307(b) or 402 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. Sec. 1317(b) or 1342);

(ii) Any UST system containing radioactive material that is regulated under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 2011 et seq.);

(iii) Any UST system that is part of an emergency power generator system at a nuclear power generation facility licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and subject to Nuclear Regulatory Commission requirements regarding design and quality criteria, including 10 C.F.R. Part 50; and

(iv) Any aboveground storage tanks associated with previously deferred UST systems, as defined in WAC 173-360A-0150(53).

(b) The partially exempt UST systems identified in (a) of this subsection are subject only to the following requirements of this chapter:

(i) WAC 173-360A-0200 (Licensing of UST systems);

(ii) WAC 173-360A-0210 (Fees for UST systems);

(iii) WAC 173-360A-0220 (Facility compliance tags);

(iv) WAC 173-360A-0240(3) (Availability of records);

(v) WAC 173-360A-0250 (Compliance monitoring, investigation, and access);

(vi) WAC 173-360A-0270 (Enforcement);

(vii) WAC 173-360A-0280 (Delivery prohibition);

(viii) WAC 173-360A-0290 (Civil penalties);

(ix) WAC 173-360A-0300 (Installation of UST systems and components);

(x) WAC 173-360A-0340 (Performance standards for partially exempt UST systems), except for:

(A) Aboveground storage tanks associated with previously deferred UST systems; and

(B) UST systems for which installation commenced on or before December 22, 1988;

(xi) WAC 173-360A-0400(1) and 173-360A-0405(1) (Authority to deliver or deposit regulated substances);

(xii) WAC 173-360A-0750 (Reporting and cleanup of confirmed releases);

(xiii) WAC 173-360A-0810(5) (Partially exempt UST systems – Notice of permanent closure);

(xiv) WAC 173-360A-0820(5) (Partially exempt UST systems – Notice of change-in-service); and

(xv) Part 10 of this chapter (Financial responsibility).

(3) Previously deferred UST system compliance dates.

(a) Owners and operators of previously deferred UST systems, as defined in WAC 173-360A-0150(53), installed on or before October 1, 2018, must comply with the requirements of this chapter in accordance with the schedule in Table 0110-1.

(b) Owners and operators of previously deferred UST systems installed after October 1, 2018, must comply with the requirements of this chapter upon installation.

This chapter supersedes and preempts any state or local underground storage tank law, ordinance, or resolution governing any aspect of regulation covered by this chapter except:

(1) Provisions of the International Fire Code adopted under chapter 19.27 RCW that are not more stringent than and do not directly conflict with the provisions of this chapter;

(2) Local laws, ordinances, and resolutions pertaining to local authority to take immediate action in response to a release of a regulated substance;

(3) Local laws, ordinances, and resolutions pertaining to permits and fees for the use of underground storage tanks in street right of ways that were in effect on July 1, 1990;

(4) City, town, or county underground storage tank ordinances that are more stringent than the federal regulations and the uniform fire code adopted under chapter 19.27 RCW and were in effect on November 1, 1988. Under chapter 90.76 RCW, local jurisdictions were required to notify the department of the existence of such ordinances by July 1, 1989. The department received notification from the city of Redmond, and city of Renton, the city of Spokane, Spokane County, and Tacoma-Pierce County; and

(5) Local laws, ordinances, and resolutions pertaining to the protection of environmentally sensitive areas that are more stringent than the requirements of this chapter and have been approved by the department under WAC 173-360A-0130.

A city, town, or county may adopt ordinances or resolutions establishing requirements for UST systems within an environmentally sensitive area that are more stringent than the statewide requirements of this chapter, if approved by the department under this section. Designation of an environmentally sensitive area under this section is solely for the purposes of implementing chapter 90.76 RCW.

(1) Application. Any city, town, or county may apply to the department to have an area within its jurisdictional boundaries designated an environmentally sensitive area. A city, town, or county may also submit a joint application with any other city, town, or county for joint administration under chapter 39.34 RCW of a single environmentally sensitive area located in both jurisdictions.

(a) Required information. The application for designation of an environmentally sensitive area and approval of more stringent UST system requirements must consist of a concise, factual report that provides sufficient information for the department to make a determination. The application must include the following:

(i) A description and map of the area to be designated and where within the area the more stringent UST system requirements would apply;

(ii) A description of the physical characteristics of the area, including any available maps of underground water resources and recharge areas, and an explanation of why those characteristics make it especially vulnerable to the threats posed by releases from UST systems, considering the criteria in subsection (2) of this section;

(iii) A description of the more stringent requirements that would apply to UST systems in the area, and an explanation of why more stringent requirements are necessary to protect the area, considering:

(A) The possible impacts of contaminated groundwater on human health and the environment;

(B) Whether the statewide requirements of this chapter are sufficient to prevent releases that may contaminate the groundwater; and

(C) A description of any other measures in place or considered to protect groundwater or surface water from environmental threats;

(iv) Any written comments submitted by the public on the proposed designation under subsection (3) of this section, and an explanation of how those comments were addressed; and

(v) Documentation of coordination with affected state and local agencies and water user groups under subsection (3) of this section.

(b) Additional information. The department may require additional information from the applicant if necessary to adequately evaluate the proposal. This information may include the following:

(i) The geographic limits of the groundwater recharge zone;

(ii) The geographic limits of the underground water resource;

(iii) The geology within both the recharge zone and the underground water resource;

(iv) The location, yield, well depth, and present use of wells within the limits of the threatened underground water resource;

(v) The estimated capacity of the underground water resource;

(vi) The location, type, and number of UST systems in the area; and

(vii) Such other information the department deems necessary.

(2) Designation criteria. When applying to the department to designate an environmentally sensitive area, the applicant must demonstrate that the physical characteristics of the area make it especially vulnerable to the threats posed by releases from UST systems and that more stringent requirements for UST systems are necessary to protect the area. To do this, the applicant must demonstrate either:

(a) That the area is designated as a sensitive area for the purposes of protecting groundwater or surface water from pollution under another statute or regulation. If this demonstration is made, then the department must approve its designation as an environmentally sensitive area. Those areas include the following:

(i) An aquifer identified as the primary source of supply for public water supply systems;

(ii) An aquifer underlying a critical water supply service area where the coordinated water system plan established pursuant to chapter 70.116 RCW has identified a need for a groundwater management program;

(iii) An aquifer designated as a sole source aquifer by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency;

(iv) An area designated as a certified groundwater management area under chapter 173-100 WAC; and

(v) An area designated as an aquifer protection area under chapter 36.36 RCW; or

(b) That the area meets one or more of the following criteria. If this demonstration is made, then the department must evaluate the application based on the overall sensitivity of the environment and the need for more stringent requirements:

(i) The groundwater underlying the area is vulnerable to releases from UST systems based on the hydrogeological characteristics of the area, including the following:

(A) Whether the area is a recharge area for underlying groundwater;

(B) The depth to groundwater;

(C) The permeability of the soils;

(D) The amount of precipitation;

(E) The direction and quantity of groundwater flow; and

(F) The presence of aquitards;

(ii) Proximity of the area to surface water that is hydrogeologically connected to groundwater if releases from an UST system may reasonably reach such groundwater based on the hydrogeological characteristics of the area;

(iii) Proximity of the area to surface water and wetlands;

(iv) The area is located within a one hundred-year flood plain; or

(v) Other criteria published by the department.

(3) Public involvement. Before submitting an application for designation and approval of more stringent UST system requirements under subsection (1) of this section, the applicant must:

(a) Provide the public, affected local, state, and tribal agencies, and affected water user groups adequate notice and opportunity to comment on the application; and

(b) Hold at least one public hearing for the purpose of receiving comments on the application from such persons.

(4) Review and approval.

(a) Completeness. Within thirty days of receiving an application, the department must review the application for completeness and request any additional information needed in order for the application to be complete.

(b) Public hearing. Before approving or disapproving the application, the department may, at its discretion, hold an additional public hearing in the jurisdiction where the environmentally sensitive area is proposed.

(c) Determination. The department must approve or disapprove the application. The department's determination must be based on:

(i) Review of the application and any comments received;

(ii) Whether the area to be designated meets the definition of an environmentally sensitive area, based on the criteria specified in this section; and

(iii) Whether the proposed more stringent UST system requirements are necessary and reasonably consistent with previously approved local regulations for similar environmentally sensitive areas.

(d) Resubmittal. Applications disapproved by the department may be modified by the local government and resubmitted to the department for approval.

(5) Applicability of approved programs. Proposed local ordinances and resolutions become effective when approved by the department. An approved local ordinance or resolution may only apply to UST systems installed after the effective date of the ordinance or resolution.

(6) Local tank fees. A city, town, or county with an approved ordinance or resolution under this section may establish an annual local tank fee in the environmentally sensitive area, subject to the approval of the department. To be approved, the annual local tank fee must not exceed fifty percent of the annual state tank fee, and must be demonstrated to be necessary for enhanced program administration and enforcement. Annual local tank fees authorized and collected under this section must be deposited in the state underground storage tank account, established under RCW 90.76.100.

In order to fully implement this chapter, and to protect surface and groundwater resources that may cross jurisdictional boundaries, the department may negotiate and enter into cooperative agreements with Indian tribal governments, adjacent states, and Canadian governmental agencies. Such cooperative agreements do not affect the regulatory jurisdiction of any party thereto with regard to any civil or criminal matters otherwise exercised by any party. Intergovernmental agreements must further the purpose of this chapter, serve to establish a framework for intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, and serve to minimize duplication and efficiently utilize program resources to manage underground storage tanks and protect surface and groundwater resources.

For the purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

(1) "Airport hydrant fuel distribution system" or "airport hydrant system" means an UST system which fuels aircraft and operates under high pressure with large diameter piping that typically terminates into one or more hydrants (fill stands). The airport hydrant system begins where fuel enters one or more tanks from an external source such as a pipeline, barge, railcar, or other motor fuel carrier.

(2) "Ancillary equipment" means any devices including spill prevention equipment, overfill prevention equipment, corrosion protection equipment, release detection equipment, containment sumps, and such devices as piping, fittings, flanges, valves, and pumps used to distribute, meter, or control the flow of regulated substances to and from an UST.

(3) "Cathodic protection" means a technique to prevent corrosion of a metal surface by making that surface the cathode of an electrochemical cell. For example, an UST system can be cathodically protected through the application of either galvanic anodes or impressed current.

(4) "Cathodic protection tester" means an individual who can demonstrate an understanding of the principles and measurements of all common types of cathodic protection systems as applied to buried or submerged metal piping and tank systems. At a minimum, such individuals must have sufficient education in and experience with soil resistivity, stray current, structure-to-soil potential, component electrical isolation measurements of buried metal piping and tank systems. Such individuals must be certified in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0930(6).

(5) "Change-in-service" means to change the substances stored in an UST system from regulated substances to unregulated substances.

(6) "Class A operator" means an individual designated by an UST system owner or operator as having primary responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the system. The Class A operator typically manages resources and personnel, such as establishing work assignments, to achieve and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.

(7) "Class B operator" means an individual designated by an UST system owner or operator as having control of or responsibility for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the system. The Class B operator typically performs or ensures the performance of operation and maintenance activities at a UST facility, maintains records of those activities, and reports those activities to the department.

(8) "Class C operator" means an individual responsible for initially responding to alarms or other indications of emergencies caused by spills, overfills, leaks, or releases from an UST system. The Class C operator typically controls or monitors the dispensing or sale of regulated substances from the system.

(9) "Code of practice" means the most recent edition of a code of practice developed by a nationally or internationally recognized association or independent testing laboratory available at the time an UST system service is performed.

(10) "Compatible" means the ability of two or more substances or materials to maintain their respective physical and chemical properties upon contact with one another for the design life of the UST system under conditions likely to be encountered in the UST system.

(11) "Connected piping" means all underground piping including valves, elbows, joints, flanges, and flexible connectors attached to an UST system through which regulated substances flow. For the purpose of determining how much piping is connected to any individual UST system, the piping that joins two UST systems should be allocated equally between them.

(12) "Containment sump" means a liquid-tight container that protects the environment by containing leaks and spills of regulated substances from piping, dispensers, pumps, and related components in the containment area. Containment sumps may be single walled or secondarily contained and located at the top of tank (tank top or submersible turbine pump sump), underneath the dispenser (under-dispenser containment sump), or at other points in the piping run (transition or intermediate sump).

(13) "Corrosion expert" means an individual who, by reason of a thorough knowledge of the physical sciences and the principles of engineering and mathematics acquired by a professional education and related practical experience, is qualified to engage in the practice of corrosion control on buried or submerged metal piping systems and metal tanks. Such individuals must be certified in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0930(5).

(14) "Decommission" means to permanently take a tank or pipe out of operation.

(15) "Department" means the department of ecology.

(16) "Dielectric material" means a material that does not conduct direct electrical current. Dielectric coatings are used to electrically isolate UST systems from the surrounding soils. Dielectric bushings are used to electrically isolate portions of the UST system (e.g., tank from piping).

(17) "Dispenser" means a device used to dispense regulated substances from an UST system.

(18) "Dispenser system" means a dispenser and the aboveground equipment necessary to connect the dispenser to an UST system, including check valves, shear valves, unburied risers, flexible connectors, and other transitional components.

(19) "Double-walled tanks" and "double-walled piping" mean tanks and piping consisting of an inner wall and an outer wall with an interstitial space capable of being monitored for leaks.

(20) "Electrical equipment" means, for the purposes of the exemption described in WAC 173-360A-0110 (1)(i), underground equipment that contains dielectric fluid that is necessary for the operation of equipment such as transformers and buried electrical cable.

(21) "Environment" means the term as defined in WAC 173-340-200.

(22) "Excavation zone" means the volume containing the UST system and backfill material bounded by the ground surface, walls, and floor of the pit and trenches into which the UST system is placed at the time of installation.

(23) "Existing UST system" means an UST system used to contain an accumulation of regulated substances or for which installation had commenced on or before December 22, 1988. Installation is considered to have commenced if:

(a) The owner or operator had obtained all federal, state, and local approvals or permits necessary to begin physical construction at the UST facility or installation of the UST system; and

(b) Either a continuous on-site physical construction or installation program had begun or the owner or operator had entered into contractual obligations—which cannot be canceled or modified without substantial loss—for physical construction at the UST facility or installation of the UST system to be completed within a reasonable time.

(24) "Facility compliance tag" means a white-colored metal plate with a green-colored identification number issued by the department for display at a UST facility in a location clearly visible to the product deliverer and persons withdrawing waste oil. Each UST facility is identified by a facility compliance tag. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, it is unlawful for regulated substances to be delivered or deposited into an UST system, or withdrawn from a waste oil UST system, at a UST facility without a valid and properly displayed facility compliance tag.

(25) "Farm UST system" means an UST system located on a tract of land devoted to the production of crops or raising animals, including fish, and associated residences and improvements. A farm UST system must be located on the farm property and used for farm purposes. "Farm" includes fish hatcheries, rangeland, and nurseries with growing operations. It does not include laboratories where animals are raised, land used to grow timber, pesticide aviation operations, retail stores or garden centers where nursery products are marketed but not grown, cemeteries, golf courses, or other facilities dedicated primarily to recreation or aesthetics, or other nonagricultural activities.

(26) "Field-constructed tank" means an underground storage tank that is constructed in the field. For example, the following are considered field-constructed tanks: A tank constructed of concrete that is poured in the field, or a steel or fiberglass tank primarily fabricated in the field.

(27) "Flow-through process tank" means a tank that forms an integral part of a production process through which there is a steady, variable, recurring, or intermittent flow of materials during the operation of the process. Flow-through process tanks do not include tanks used for the storage of materials prior to their introduction into the production process or for the storage of finished products or by-products from the production process.

(28) "Free product" means the term as defined in WAC 173-340-200.

(29) "Gathering lines" means any pipeline, equipment, facility, or building used in the transportation of oil or gas during oil or gas production or gathering operations.

(30) "Groundwater" means the term as defined in WAC 173-340-200.

(31) "Hazardous substance" means any substance defined in section 101(14) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 9601(14)). However, the term does not include any substance regulated as a hazardous waste under Subtitle C of the Solid Waste Disposal Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 6921 through 6939e) or any mixture of such hazardous wastes and other regulated substances.

(32) "Hazardous substance UST system" means an UST system that contains a hazardous substance or any mixture of such substances and petroleum, and which is not a petroleum UST system.

(33) "Hydraulic lift tank" means a tank holding hydraulic fluid for a closed-loop mechanical system that uses compressed air or hydraulic fluid to operate lifts, elevators, and other similar devices.

(34) "Include" means including, but not limited to.

(35) "Install" means placing an UST system or any UST system component in position and preparing it to be placed into operation.

(36) "Interstitial space" means the space between the primary and secondary containment systems (e.g., the space between the inner and outer walls of a tank or pipe).

(37) "License" means the business license underground storage tank endorsement issued by the department of revenue under chapter 19.02 RCW.

(38) "Liquid trap" means sumps, well cellars, and other traps used in association with oil and gas production, gathering, and extraction operations (including gas production plants), for the purpose of collecting oil, water, and other liquids. These liquid traps may temporarily collect liquids for subsequent disposition or reinjection into a production or pipeline stream, or may collect and separate liquids from a gas stream.

(39) "Maintenance" means the normal operational upkeep to prevent an UST system from releasing a regulated substance.

(40) "Motor fuel" means a complex blend of hydrocarbons typically used in the operation of a motor engine, such as motor gasoline, aviation gasoline, No. 1 or No. 2 diesel fuel, or any blend containing one or more of these substances (for example: Motor gasoline blended with alcohol).

(41) "New UST system" means an UST system that will be used to contain an accumulation of regulated substances and for which installation commenced after December 22, 1988. (See also "existing tank system.")

(42) "Noncommercial purposes" with respect to motor fuel means not for resale.

(43) "Operational life" means the period beginning when installation of an UST system has commenced and ending when the UST system is permanently closed or undergoes a change-in-service.

(44) "Operator" means any person in control of, or having responsibility for, the daily operation of the UST system.

(45) "Owner" means:

(a) In the case of an UST system in use before November 8, 1984, but no longer in use on that date, any person who owned the UST system immediately before the discontinuation of its use;

(b) In the case of an UST system in use on November 8, 1984, or brought into use after that date, any person who:

(i) Currently owns the UST system; or

(ii) Owned the UST system immediately before its permanent closure or change-in-service; and

(c) In the event that the owner of an UST system cannot be physically located, any person who owns the property where the UST system is located.

The term "owner" does not include any person who holds indicia of ownership primarily to protect the person's security interest in the UST system or the UST facility or property where the UST system is located. The person holding indicia of ownership cannot participate in the management of an UST system or be engaged in petroleum production, refining, and marketing.

(46) "Permanently closed UST system" means:

(a) In the case of an UST system taken out of operation before December 22, 1988, the UST system was substantially emptied of regulated substances or permanently altered structurally to prevent reuse;

(b) In the case of an UST system taken out of operation on or after December 22, 1988, and before December 29, 1990, the UST system was permanently closed in accordance with 40 C.F.R. Sec. 280; and

(c) In the case of an UST system taken out of operation on or after December 29, 1990, the UST system was permanently closed in accordance with this chapter.

(47) "Person" means an individual, trust, firm, joint stock company, corporation, association, partnership, consortium, joint venture, commercial entity, state, municipality, commission, political subdivision of a state, interstate body, federal government, or agency of the federal government.

(48) "Petroleum" means crude oil or any fraction thereof that is liquid at standard conditions of temperature and pressure (sixty degrees Fahrenheit and 14.7 pounds per square inch absolute) and any product comprised of a complex blend of hydrocarbons, such as motor fuels, jet fuels, distillate fuel oils, residual fuel oils, lubricants, petroleum solvents, and used oils. The term does not include propane or asphalt or any other product that is not liquid at standard conditions of temperature and pressure.

(49) "Petroleum UST system" means an UST system that contains petroleum or a mixture of petroleum with de minimis quantities of other regulated substances. Such systems include those containing motor fuels, jet fuels, distillate fuel oils, residual fuel oils, lubricants, petroleum solvents, and used oils.

(50) "Pipe" or "piping" means a hollow cylinder or tubular conduit that is constructed of nonearthen materials.

(51) "Pipeline facilities (including gathering lines)" means any new and existing pipe rights of way and any associated equipment, facilities, or buildings.

(52) "Piping run" means all underground piping connecting an individual submersible pump or suction stub to an associated dispenser system or other end-use equipment.

(53) "Previously deferred UST system" means an UST system with field-constructed tanks or an airport hydrant fuel distribution system.

(54) "Product deliverer" means any person who delivers or deposits product into an UST system. This term includes major oil companies, jobbers, petroleum transportation companies, or other product delivery entities.

(55) "Rectifier adjustment" means any adjustment or maintenance of a rectifier that is part of an impressed current cathodic protection system, including any adjustment of voltage or amperage or replacement of fuses or diodes. Rectifier adjustments are a type of repair.

(56) "Red tag" means a red-colored tag or device on the fill pipe of an UST system that clearly identifies the system as ineligible for product delivery or waste oil withdrawal. The tag or device is tamper resistant and is easily visible to the product deliverer and persons withdrawing waste oil. The tag or device clearly states and conveys, as applicable, that it is unlawful for regulated substances to be delivered or deposited into an UST system or withdrawn from a waste oil UST system.

(57) "Regulated substance" means:

(a) Petroleum;

(b) Hazardous substances; and

(c) Mixtures of petroleum and hazardous substances.

(58) "Release" means any spilling, overfilling, leaking, emitting, discharging, escaping, leaching, or disposing of regulated substances from an UST system into the environment.

(59) "Release detection" means determining whether a release of a regulated substance has occurred from the UST system into the environment or a leak has occurred into the interstitial space between the UST system and its secondary containment.

(60) "Remedial action" means the term as defined in WAC 173-340-200.

(61) "Repair" means to restore to proper operating condition a tank, pipe, spill prevention equipment, overfill prevention equipment, corrosion protection equipment, release detection equipment, containment sump, or other UST system component that has caused a release of a regulated substance from the UST system or has failed to function properly.

(62) "Residential UST system" means an UST system located on property used primarily for dwelling purposes. Such properties do not include dormitories, convents, mobile parks, apartments, hotels and similar facilities, unless the UST system is used by the owner solely for his or her own personal use, rather than to maintain the overall facility.

(63) "Secondary containment" means a release prevention system for tanks and piping consisting of an inner barrier and an outer barrier with an interstitial space capable of being monitored for leaks. This term includes containment sumps when used for interstitial monitoring of piping.

(64) "Septic tank" means a water-tight covered receptacle designed and used to receive or process, through liquid separation or biological digestion, the sewage discharged from a building sewer. The effluent from such receptacle is distributed for disposal through the soil and settled solids and scum from the tank are pumped out periodically and hauled to a treatment facility.

(65) "Service provider" means an individual who is certified to perform or directly supervise the performance of UST system services under WAC 173-360A-0920 and 173-360A-0930.

(66) "Site assessment" means an investigation of the environment around an UST system to determine whether there has been a release of regulated substances from the system into the environment and whether a release may pose a threat to human health or the environment.

(67) "Site check" means a type of site assessment performed when a release from an UST system is suspected.

(68) "Stormwater or wastewater collection system" means piping, pumps, conduits, and any other equipment necessary to collect and transport the flow of surface water run-off resulting from precipitation, or domestic, commercial, or industrial wastewater to and from retention areas or any areas where treatment is designated to occur. The collection of stormwater and wastewater does not include treatment except where incidental to conveyance.

(69) "Surface impoundment" means a natural topographic depression, excavation, or diked area formed primarily of earthen materials (although it may be lined with synthetic materials) that is not an injection well.

(70) "Tank" is a stationary device designed to contain an accumulation of regulated substances and constructed of nonearthen materials (e.g., concrete, steel, plastic) that provide structural support.

(71) "Temporarily closed UST system" means an UST system that has been taken out of operation and will be returned to operation, undergo a change-in-service, or be permanently closed in the future.

(72) "Tightness testing" means a procedure for testing the ability of an UST system component to prevent an inadvertent release of regulated substances into the environment or an intrusion of groundwater into an UST system.

(73) "Under-dispenser containment" or "UDC" means containment underneath a dispenser system designed to prevent leaks from the dispenser and piping within or above the UDC from reaching the environment.

(74) "Underground storage tank" or "UST" means any one tank or combination of tanks (including underground pipes connected thereto) that is used to contain an accumulation of regulated substances, and the volume of which (including the volume of underground pipes connected thereto) is ten percent or more beneath the ground surface or otherwise covered by earthen materials.

(75) "Upgrade" means the addition or retrofit of an UST system component, such as corrosion protection equipment, release detection equipment, or spill and overfill prevention equipment, to improve the ability of an UST system to prevent the release of regulated substances.

(76) "UST facility" means the location where one or more UST systems are or will be installed. The term encompasses all contiguous real property under common ownership associated with the operation of the UST system or systems.

(77) "UST system" or "tank system" means an underground storage tank, connected underground piping, underground ancillary equipment, and containment system, if any.

(78) "UST system component" means a component of an UST system, including any underground storage tanks, connected underground piping, underground ancillary equipment, and containment systems.

(79) "UST system services" means the services performed on an UST system requiring the use of a service provider as specified in WAC 173-360A-0920.

(80) "Wastewater treatment tank system" means a tank system that is designed to receive and treat influent wastewater through physical, chemical, or biological methods.

If any provision of this chapter or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of this chapter or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected.

(1) Requirement for a license. An owner or operator must maintain a license for each tank until the UST system has undergone permanent closure or a change-in-service. Without the prior written authorization of the department, an UST system may not be operated without a license for each tank. Possession of a license does not preclude enforcement against owners and operators under this chapter, chapter 90.76 RCW, or other laws.

(2) Eligibility for a license. To be eligible for a license, an UST system must be in compliance with the requirements of this chapter and chapter 90.76 RCW.

(3) Application for a license.

(a) An owner or operator must apply for a license within thirty days of the following:

(i) Installation of an UST system or tank; or

(ii) Change in the owner or operator that is the licensee.

(b) To apply for a license, an owner or operator must submit the following to the department of revenue:

(i) Business license application;

(ii) Underground storage tank addendum;

(iii) Certification of financial responsibility and, if applicable, certificate of insurance or endorsement (WAC 173-360A-1045 (1)(a));

(iv) Annual tank fees (WAC 173-360A-0210) and any other applicable fees identified by the department of revenue (WAC 458-02-200(2)); and

(v) When applying upon installation of an UST system or a tank, the documentation required under WAC 173-360A-0300 (5)(a).

(c) Applications for UST systems located at different UST facilities must be submitted using separate forms, one for each facility.

(4) Notification of changes in financial assurances. Upon any change in the financial assurance mechanism(s) used to demonstrate financial responsibility or upon receipt of a notice of cancellation or termination of any such mechanism, the owner or operator must immediately notify the department of revenue in accordance with WAC 173-360A-1045 (1)(b) and (c). Licenses will not be renewed and may be revoked without proof of financial responsibility.

(5) Notification of changes in owners or operators that are not licensees. When the owner or operator that is not the licensee changes, the owner or operator must notify the department of ecology in writing within thirty days.

(6) Renewal of a license.

(a) Licenses must be renewed annually. To renew a license, the owner or operator must submit the following to the department of revenue:

(i) Renewal application; and

(ii) Annual tank fees (WAC 173-360A-0210) and any other applicable fees identified by the department of revenue (WAC 458-02-200(2)).

(b) If a license is not renewed by the expiration date, the department of revenue may assess a delinquency fee (WAC 458-02-200 (2) and (8)(b)). The department of ecology may also assess a penalty under WAC 173-360A-0290.

(7) Display of a license. Licenses must be displayed in a conspicuous place at the UST facility (RCW 90.76.020(4) and WAC 458-02-200(7)).

(8) Revocation and appeals. The department of ecology may revoke a license if an UST system is violating any requirement of this chapter or chapter 90.76 RCW. The revocation of a license may be appealed to the pollution control hearings board in accordance with chapter 43.21B RCW.

(1) Payment. Annually, the owner of an UST system must pay the following fees for each tank until the system has undergone permanent closure or a change-in-service:

(a) The state tank fee specified by the department under subsection (3) of this section; and

(b) Any applicable local tank fee approved by the department under WAC 173-360A-0130(6).

(2) Disposition. State and local tank fees collected under this section must be deposited in the account established under RCW 90.76.100.

(3) State tank fees. Effective July 1, 2018, the state tank fee is one hundred seventy-three dollars and eighty cents per tank. Annually, upon a finding by the department that a fee increase is necessary, the department may increase the state tank fee up to the fiscal growth factor for the next year. The fiscal growth factor is calculated by the office of financial management under RCW 43.135.025. The department must publish the new fee by March 1st before the year for which the new fee is effective. The new fee is effective from July 1st to June 30th of every year.

(4) Preemption of local tank fees. Except as provided under WAC 173-360A-0130(6), no local government may levy an annual tank fee on the ownership or operation of an underground storage tank.

(1) Requirement for tag. Without the prior written authorization of the department, regulated substance may not be delivered or deposited into an UST system, or withdrawn from a waste oil UST system, at a UST facility without a valid and properly displayed facility compliance tag.

(2) Eligibility for tag. To be eligible for a facility compliance tag, a UST facility must be in compliance with the requirements of this chapter and chapter 90.76 RCW.

(3) Issuance of tag. The department will issue a facility compliance tag for a UST facility upon the initial issuance of a license for an UST system at the facility under WAC 173-360A-0200.

(4) Display of tag. A facility compliance tag must be displayed at a UST facility in a location that is clearly visible to product deliverers and persons withdrawing waste oil.

(5) Revocation and appeals. The department may revoke a facility compliance tag if a UST facility is violating any requirement of this chapter or chapter 90.76 RCW. The revocation of a facility compliance tag may be appealed to the pollution control hearings board in accordance with chapter 43.21B RCW.

(6) Return upon temporary closure of facility. Within thirty days of the temporary closure all UST systems at a UST facility, owners and operators must return the facility compliance tag to the department if the systems will be closed for more than ninety days. The department will reissue a facility compliance tag for the UST facility in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0800 (5)(c).

(7) Return upon permanent closure or change-in-service of facility. Within thirty days of the permanent closure or change-in-service of all UST systems at a UST facility, owners and operators must return the facility compliance tag to the department.

(1) Licensing of UST systems. An owner or operator must apply for and renew licenses for UST systems and provide notice of any change in the owner or operator of an UST system in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0200.

(2) Changes to UST systems. Owners and operators must notify the department of the following changes in the status of an UST system in accordance with the applicable requirements of this chapter:

(a) Intent to install an UST system or a tank or piping run (WAC 173-360A-0300(1));

(b) Change in the regulated substance stored in an UST system and, if applicable, demonstration of compatibility (WAC 173-360A-0410);

(c) Change in the release detection method used for a tank or pipe (WAC 173-360A-0600(4));

(d) Temporary closure of an UST system (WAC 173-360A-0800(1));

(e) Emptying of a temporarily closed UST system (WAC 173-360A-0800(2));

(f) Return to operation of a temporarily closed UST system (WAC 173-360A-0800 (5)(b)(ii));

(g) Intent to permanently close an UST system or a tank or piping run (WAC 173-360A-0810(1));

(h) Permanent closure of a partially exempt UST system (WAC 173-360A-0810(5));

(i) Intent to undertake a change-in-service of an UST system (WAC 173-360A-0820(1)); and

(j) Change-in-service of a partially exempt UST system (WAC 173-360A-0820(5)).

(3) UST system services. Owners and operators must report the following UST system services to the department in accordance with the applicable requirements of this chapter:

(a) Installations of UST systems or UST system components (WAC 173-360A-0300);

(b) Assessments of corrosion potential (WAC 173-360A-0310 (3)(c));

(c) Upgrades of existing UST systems (WAC 173-360A-0320);

(d) Upgrades of previously deferred UST systems (WAC 173-360A-0330);

(e) Tests of cathodic protection systems (WAC 173-360A-0430(2));

(f) Internal inspections of lined tanks (WAC 173-360A-0440);

(g) Tightness tests of containment sumps used for interstitial monitoring of piping (WAC 173-360A-0450);

(h) Tightness tests of spill prevention equipment (WAC 173-360A-0460);

(i) Inspections of overfill prevention equipment (WAC 173-360A-0470);

(j) Tests of electronic or mechanical release detection equipment (WAC 173-360A-0480);

(k) Repairs of UST system components (WAC 173-360A-0490);

(l) Tightness tests of secondary containment areas of tanks or piping used for interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0490 (4)(c));

(m) Tightness tests of tanks (WAC 173-360A-0635);

(n) Tightness tests of piping (WAC 173-360A-0650);

(o) Site evaluations for vapor or groundwater monitoring systems (WAC 173-360A-0660(2) or 173-360A-0665(2));

(p) Site assessments, including site checks (WAC 173-360A-0730);

(q) Decommissioning of UST systems, or tanks or piping runs that are part of an UST system, upon permanent closure (WAC 173-360A-0810(2)); and

(r) Decommissioning of UST systems upon a change-in-service (WAC 173-360A-0820(2)).

(4) Releases from UST systems. Owners and operators must notify the department of the following in accordance with the applicable requirements of this chapter:

(a) All suspected releases (WAC 173-360A-0700);

(b) All spills and overfills resulting in a release that may pose a threat to human health or the environment or that have not been cleaned up within twenty-four hours (WAC 173-360A-0740); and

(c) All confirmed releases that may pose a threat to human health or the environment (WAC 173-360A-0750(1)).

(5) Cleanups of releases from UST systems. Owners and operators must report remedial actions to the department in accordance with chapter 173-340 WAC or as otherwise directed by the department under chapter 90.48 RCW (WAC 173-360A-0750(4)).

(6) Financial responsibility for UST systems.

(a) Owners or operators must demonstrate compliance with financial responsibility requirements in accordance with WAC 173-360A-1045(1) and 173-360A-0200 (3) and (4).

(b) Owners or operators must submit financial responsibility records in accordance with WAC 173-360A-1045 (2) and (3) and 173-360A-0750(3).

(7) Requirements for sellers and lessors.

(a) Any person who sells a tank must notify the new owner of the licensing requirements in WAC 173-360A-0200.

(b) Any person who leases a tank must notify the new operator of the licensing requirements in WAC 173-360A-0200.

(8) Requirements for service providers. Service providers must:

(a) Document the UST system services specified in subsection (3) of this section in accordance with the applicable requirements of this chapter (WAC 173-360A-0940(4));

(b) Notify owners and operators when they determine that the UST system for which they are providing services is not in compliance with the requirements of this chapter in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0940(5); and

(c) Report confirmed releases from UST systems to owners and operators and to the department in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0940(6).

(9) Requirements for product deliverers and waste oil collectors. Product deliverers and waste oil collectors must report any spill or overfill of regulated substances to the owner or operator in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0405(4).

(1) Records. Owners and operators must maintain records of the following in accordance with the applicable requirements of this chapter:

(a) Installations of UST systems and UST system components (WAC 173-360A-0300);

(b) Assessments of corrosion potential (WAC 173-360A-0310 (3)(c));

(c) Upgrades of existing UST systems (WAC 173-360A-0320);

(d) Upgrades of previously deferred UST systems (WAC 173-360A-0330);

(e) Compatibility of UST system components (WAC 173-360A-0350);

(f) Periodic walkthrough inspections (WAC 173-360A-0420);

(g) Tests of cathodic protection systems (WAC 173-360A-0430(2));

(h) Rectifier inspections (WAC 173-360A-0430(3));

(i) Internal inspections of lined tanks (WAC 173-360A-0440);

(j) Periodic monitoring and tightness tests of containment sumps used for interstitial monitoring of piping (WAC 173-360A-0450);

(k) Periodic monitoring and tightness tests of spill prevention equipment (WAC 173-360A-0460);

(l) Inspections of overfill prevention equipment (WAC 173-360A-0470);

(m) Operation and maintenance, including tests, of release detection equipment (WAC 173-360A-0480);

(n) Repairs of UST system components (WAC 173-360A-0490);

(o) Tightness tests of secondary containment areas of tanks and piping used for interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0490 (4)(c));

(p) Current operation and maintenance plans (WAC 173-360A-0545);

(q) Currently designated operators and training (WAC 173-360A-0560);

(r) Compliance with release detection requirements (WAC 173-360A-0600);

(s) Site assessments, including site checks (WAC 173-360A-0730);

(t) Investigation and cleanup of confirmed releases (WAC 173-360A-0750(4) and 173-340-850); and

(u) Compliance with financial responsibility requirements (WAC 173-360A-1040).

(2) Retention of records. Records must be maintained for the period specified by the rules in effect at the time the records were created.

(3) Availability of records. Owners and operators must make all records required under subsection (1) of this section readily available for inspection upon request by the department.

(4) Transfer of records. Owners and operators must transfer all records required under subsection (1) of this section to new owners and operators.

(5) Service providers. Service providers must maintain records of their certification in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0940 (1)(b).

(1) The department's compliance monitoring program, including procedures for inspections and recordkeeping, must be consistent with and no less stringent than the program required by 40 C.F.R. Sec. 281.40, as amended, and section 9005 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 6991d).

(2) If necessary to determine compliance with the requirements of this chapter or chapter 90.76 RCW, an authorized representative of the state engaged in compliance inspections, monitoring or testing may, by request, require an owner or operator to submit relevant information or documents. The department may subpoena witnesses, documents, and other relevant information that the department deems necessary. In the case of any refusal to obey the subpoena, the superior court for any county in which the person is found, resides, or transacts business has jurisdiction to issue an order requiring the person to appear before the department and give testimony or produce documents. Any failure to obey the order of the court may be punished by the court as contempt.

(3) Any authorized representative of the state may require an owner or operator to conduct monitoring or testing.

(4) Upon reasonable notice, an authorized representative of the state may enter a premises or UST facility subject to regulation under this chapter or in which records relevant to the operation of an UST system are kept. In the event of an emergency or in circumstances where notice would undermine the effectiveness of an inspection, notice is not required. The authorized representative may copy records, obtain samples of regulated substances, and inspect or conduct monitoring or testing of an UST system.

(5) Owners and operators of UST systems must cooperate fully with inspections, monitoring, and testing conducted by the department, as well as requests for document submission, testing, and monitoring by the owner or operator under this section.

(6) For purposes of this section, the term "authorized representative" or "authorized representative of the state" means an enforcement officer, employee, or representative of the department.

The department's procedures for sharing information with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency must be consistent with and no less stringent than those required by 40 C.F.R. Sec. 281.43, as amended.

(1) Authority. The director of the department of ecology may seek appropriate injunctive or other judicial relief by filing an action in Thurston County superior court or issuing such order as the director deems appropriate to:

(a) Enjoin any threatened or continuing violation of this chapter or chapter 90.76 RCW;

(b) Restrain immediately and effectively a person from engaging in unauthorized activity that results in a violation of any requirement of this chapter or chapter 90.76 RCW and is endangering or causing damage to public health or the environment;

(c) Require compliance with requests for information, access, testing, or monitoring under WAC 173-360A-0250 or RCW 90.76.060;

(d) Prohibit the delivery, deposit, or acceptance of a regulated substance to an UST system identified by the department to be ineligible for such delivery, deposit, or acceptance in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0280 and chapter 90.76 RCW; or

(e) Assess and recover civil penalties authorized under WAC 173-360A-0290 and RCW 90.76.080.

(2) Procedures. The department's enforcement procedures must be consistent with and no less stringent than those required by 40 C.F.R. Sec. 281.41, as amended, and section 9012 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 6991k).

(3) Appeals. A person subject to an order issued under this chapter may appeal the order to the pollution control hearings board in accordance with RCW 43.21B.310.

(4) Public participation. The department's procedures for public participation in the state enforcement process must be consistent with and no less stringent than those required by 40 C.F.R. Sec. 281.42, as amended. The department will not oppose intervention of right under Superior Court Civil Rule 24 (a)(2) in a civil enforcement action taken under this chapter or chapter 90.76 RCW on the grounds that the person's interest is adequately represented by the state.

(1) Authority. If the department determines the owners and operators of an UST system are violating any requirement of this chapter or chapter 90.76 RCW, the department may prohibit the delivery, deposit, or acceptance of regulated substances to the system or the entire UST facility where the system is located.

(2) Procedures. The department's procedures for enforcing delivery prohibition must be consistent with and no less stringent than those required by 40 C.F.R. Sec. 281.42, as amended, and section 9012 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 6991k).

(3) Identification. The department may identify an UST system subject to delivery prohibition by either:

(a) Affixing a red tag to the fill pipe of the system; or

(b) Revoking the facility compliance tag of the UST facility where the system is located.

(4) Prohibition. Without the prior written authorization of the department, product deliverers may not deliver or deposit, and owners and operators may not accept the delivery or deposit of, regulated substances into an UST system if:

(a) A red tag is attached to the fill pipe of the system; or

(b) A valid facility compliance tag is not properly displayed at the UST facility where the system is located.

(5) Withdrawal of waste oil. Without the prior written authorization of the department, persons may not withdraw, and owners and operators may not allow the withdrawal of, regulated substances from a waste oil UST system subject to delivery prohibition.

(6) Unauthorized removal of red tags. No person may remove or alter a red tag without the prior written authorization of the department. The unauthorized removal or alteration of a red tag constitutes a violation of this chapter.

(1) A person who fails to notify the department pursuant to the notification requirements of this chapter, or who submits false information, is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed five thousand dollars per violation.

(2) A person who violates this chapter or chapter 90.76 RCW is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed five thousand dollars for each tank per day of violation.

(3) A person incurring a penalty under this chapter or chapter 90.76 RCW may apply to the department in writing for the remission or mitigation of the penalty as set out in RCW 43.21B.300. A person also may appeal a penalty directly to the pollution control hearings board in accordance with RCW 43.21B.300.

Owners and operators must ensure UST systems and UST system components are installed in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(1) Notice of intent to install an UST system or a tank or piping run. When installing an entire UST system, or a tank or piping run that is part of an UST system, owners and operators must notify the department as specified in this subsection.

(a) Except for emergency replacements identified under (b) of this subsection, owners and operators must notify the department of planned installations at least thirty days, but no more than ninety days, before the planned start date using the applicable form provided by the department. Owners and operators must also confirm the planned start date at least three business days before starting installation.

(b) For emergency replacements, owners and operators must notify the department before starting the installation. A replacement constitutes an emergency if:

(i) There is a confirmed release from an operating UST system;

(ii) The UST system is located at an operating UST facility; and

(iii) The UST system is necessary for the normal operation of the facility.

(2) Performance. An UST system or UST system component must be installed:

(a) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(b) In accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and a code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(i) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1615, "Installation of Underground Petroleum Storage System";

(ii) National Fire Protection Association, Standard 30, "Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code," and Standard 30A, "Code for Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages";

(iii) Petroleum Equipment Institute, Recommended Practice 100, "Recommended Practices for Installation of Underground Liquid Storage Systems"; or

(iv) For previously deferred UST systems, military construction criteria, such as U.S. Department of Defense, Unified Facilities Criteria 3-460-01, "Design: Petroleum Fuel Facilities."

(3) Standards. The installed UST system or UST system component must meet the performance standards in WAC 173-360A-0310 or 173-360A-0340, as applicable.

(4) Used tanks. A used tank may not be installed as part of an UST system unless:

(a) The used tank meets the performance standards in WAC 173-360A-310(1) or 173-360A-340, as applicable;

(b) The used tank is recertified for use by the original manufacturer or its successor-in-interest; and

(c) Proof of recertification is included with the notice required under subsection (1) of this section.

(5) Reporting.

(a) Installations of UST systems or tanks. Installations of UST systems or tanks must be reported when applying for a license in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0200(3). The following documentation must be included as part of the application:

(i) Certification of installation, completed by the service provider;

(ii) Manufacturer's installation checklist, completed by the service provider;

(iii) If required under WAC 173-360A-0310 (3)(c), corrosion potential assessment report, completed by the corrosion expert; and

(iv) An as-built plan of the UST facility that:

(A) Shows the location of the UST systems (including all tanks, piping, and dispensers) and any adjacent structures or streets;

(B) Identifies and uses appropriate and consistent scales to show all required details in sufficient clarity; and

(C) Contains a title, legend of all symbols used, north arrow, and drafting or origination date.

(b) Installations of other UST system components. Installations of other UST system components must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. Service providers must complete the checklist.

(6) Recordkeeping. Records of installations completed after October 1, 2018, must be maintained until the UST system is permanently closed or undergoes a change-in-service.

Except as provided under WAC 173-360A-0330, owners and operators must ensure new UST systems and UST system components meet the performance standards of this section.

(1) Tanks. To prevent releases due to structural failure or corrosion, tanks must meet the performance standards in this subsection.

(a) Metal. Tanks made of metal must be designed and constructed in accordance with the following:

(i) The compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350;

(ii) The cathodic protection requirements in subsection (3) of this section, if applicable;

(iii) The secondary containment requirements in subsection (4) of this section, if applicable; and

(iv) A code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(A) Steel Tank Institute, Specification STI-P3®, "Specification and Manual for External Corrosion Protection of Underground Steel Storage Tanks";

(B) Steel Tank Institute, Standard F841, "Standard for Dual Wall Underground Steel Storage Tanks";

(C) Underwriters Laboratories, Standard 1746, "Standard for External Corrosion Protection Systems for Steel Underground Storage Tanks";

(D) Underwriters Laboratories of Canada, Standard S603, "Standard for Steel Underground Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids," Standard S603.1, "Standard for External Corrosion Protection Systems for Steel Underground Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids," and Standard S631, "Standard for Isolating Bushings for Steel Underground Tanks Protected with External Corrosion Protection Systems"; or

(E) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Standard Practice 0285, "External Corrosion of Underground Storage Tank Systems by Cathodic Protection," and Underwriters Laboratories, Standard 58, "Standard for Steel Underground Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids."

(b) Clad or jacketed metal. Tanks made of metal and clad or jacketed with a noncorrodible material must be designed and constructed in accordance with the following:

(i) The compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350;

(ii) The secondary containment requirements in subsection (4) of this section, if applicable; and

(iii) A code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(A) Underwriters Laboratories, Standard 1746, "External Corrosion Protection Systems for Steel Underground Storage Tanks";

(B) Steel Tank Institute, Specification F894, "ACT-100® Specification for External Corrosion Protection of FRP Composite Steel Underground Storage Tanks";

(C) Steel Tank Institute, Specification F961, "ACT-100U® Specification for External Corrosion Protection of Composite Steel Underground Storage Tanks"; or

(D) Steel Tank Institute, Specification F922, "Steel Tank Institute Specification for Permatank®."

(c) Fiberglass-reinforced plastic. Tanks made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic must be designed and constructed in accordance with the following:

(i) The compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350;

(ii) The secondary containment requirements in subsection (4) of this section, if applicable; and

(iii) A code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(A) Underwriters Laboratories, Standard 1316, "Glass-Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Underground Storage Tanks for Petroleum Products, Alcohols, and Alcohol-Gasoline Mixtures"; or

(B) Underwriters Laboratories of Canada, Standard S615, "Standard for Reinforced Plastic Underground Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids."

(d) Other materials. Tanks made of materials other than those specified in (a) through (c) of this subsection must be designed and constructed in accordance with the following:

(i) The compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350;

(ii) The secondary containment requirements in subsection (4) of this section, if applicable; and

(iii) The tank construction and corrosion protection are determined by the department to prevent releases in a manner that is no less protective of human health and the environment than specified in (a) through (c) of this subsection.

(2) Piping. To prevent releases due to structural failure or corrosion, piping must meet the performance standards in this subsection.

(a) Metal. Piping made of metal must be designed and constructed in accordance with the following:

(i) The compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350;

(ii) The cathodic protection requirements in subsection (3) of this section, if applicable;

(iii) The secondary containment requirements in subsection (5) of this section, if applicable; and

(iv) A code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(A) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1632, "Cathodic Protection of Underground Petroleum Storage Tanks and Piping Systems";

(B) Underwriters Laboratories, Standard 971A, "Outline of Investigation for Metallic Underground Fuel Pipe";

(C) Steel Tank Institute, Recommended Practice R892, "Recommended Practice for Corrosion Protection of Underground Piping Networks Associated with Liquid Storage and Dispensing Systems";

(D) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Standard Practice 0169, "Control of External Corrosion on Underground or Submerged Metallic Piping Systems"; or

(E) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Standard Practice 0285, "External Corrosion Control of Underground Storage Tank Systems by Cathodic Protection."

(b) Noncorrodible. Piping made of a noncorrodible material must be designed and constructed in accordance with the following:

(i) The compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350;

(ii) The secondary containment requirements in subsection (5) of this section, if applicable; and

(iii) A code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(A) Underwriters Laboratories, Standard 971, "Nonmetallic Underground Piping for Flammable Liquids"; or

(B) Underwriters Laboratories of Canada, Standard S660, "Standard for Nonmetallic Underground Piping for Flammable and Combustible Liquids."

(c) Other materials. Piping made of materials other than those specified in (a) and (b) of this subsection must be designed and constructed in accordance with the following:

(i) The compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350;

(ii) The secondary containment requirements in subsection (5) of this section, if applicable; and

(iii) The piping construction and corrosion protection are determined by the department to prevent releases in a manner that is no less protective of human health and the environment than specified in (a) and (b) of this subsection.

(3) Cathodic protection of metal tanks and piping.

(a) Applicability. The following tanks and piping must be cathodically protected in accordance with the requirements in (b) of this subsection unless the environment is determined not to be corrosive enough in accordance with the requirements in (c) of this subsection:

(i) Any portion of a metal tank that is underground and routinely contains regulated substances; and

(ii) Any metal piping that routinely contains regulated substances and is in contact with the ground.

(b) Performance standards. Metal tanks and piping must be cathodically protected as follows:

(i) The tank or piping must be coated with a suitable dielectric material;

(ii) The tank or piping must be equipped with a factory-installed or field-installed cathodic protection system designed by a corrosion expert; and

(iii) The cathodic protection system must be designed to allow for the operation and maintenance of the system as specified in WAC 173-360A-0430, including testing and rectifier inspections.

(c) Noncorrosive environment. Metal tanks and piping do not need to be cathodically protected if:

(i) Before installation and every five years thereafter:

(A) A corrosion expert assesses the environment around the UST system and determines that it is not corrosive enough to cause the system to have a release due to corrosion during its operational life;

(B) A report documenting the assessment, including the determination and its basis, and the person who performed the assessment, including their certification type and number, is completed by the corrosion expert; and

(C) The report is submitted as follows:

(I) For assessments performed before installation, the report is submitted to the department of revenue when applying for a license in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0200(3) and 173-360A-0300 (5)(a); and

(II) For assessments performed after installation, the report is submitted to the department of ecology within thirty days of completing the assessment; and

(ii) The owners and operators maintain records demonstrating compliance with the requirements of (c)(i) of this subsection, including the reports, until the UST system is permanently closed or undergoes a change-in-service.

(4) Secondary containment of tanks.

(a) Applicability. Tanks must be secondarily contained in accordance with the requirements in (b) of this subsection if:

(i) The tank is part of a hazardous substance UST system; or

(ii) The tank is part of a petroleum UST system, and the tank is installed or replaced after October 1, 2012.

(b) Performance standards. Tanks must be double-walled and designed and constructed to:

(i) Contain any regulated substances leaking from the primary space (through the inner wall) within the interstitial space until they are detected and removed;

(ii) Prevent the release of regulated substances into the environment throughout the operational life of the UST system; and

(iii) Allow for interstitial monitoring.

(5) Secondary containment of piping.

(a) Applicability. Piping must be secondarily contained in accordance with the requirements in (c) of this subsection unless:

(i) The piping is part of an airport hydrant system;

(ii) The piping is part of an UST system with field-constructed tanks greater than fifty thousand gallons;

(iii) The piping is part of a petroleum UST system, and the piping was installed or replaced on or before October 1, 2012;

(iv) The piping does not routinely contain regulated substances, including suction piping meeting the standards in WAC 173-360A-0600 (1)(b)(i) through (v); or

(v) The piping replaces less than fifty percent of a single-walled piping run.

(b) Replacement. Unless otherwise directed by the department, if fifty percent or more of a single-walled piping run is replaced after October 1, 2012, then the entire piping run must be replaced with double-walled piping meeting the requirements in (c) of this subsection.

(c) Performance standards. Piping must be double-walled. Containment sumps may also be used as part of the secondary containment and interstitial monitoring system for piping.

(i) Piping. Double-walled piping must be designed and constructed to:

(A) Contain any regulated substances leaking from the primary space (through the inner wall) within the piping's interstitial space or a containment sump until they are detected and removed;

(B) Prevent the release of regulated substances into the environment throughout the operational life of the UST system; and

(C) Allow for interstitial monitoring within either the piping's interstitial space or a containment sump.

(ii) Containment sumps. Containment sumps used as part of the secondary containment and interstitial monitoring system for piping must be designed and constructed to:

(A) Meet the compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350;

(B) Be liquid-tight on its sides, bottom, and at any penetrations;

(C) Allow for visual inspection and access to the components in the sump; and

(D) Allow for interstitial monitoring of the piping. The piping's interstitial space must be exposed within the sump. Sensors must be placed within the sump where they are able to detect any leak of regulated substances.

(6) Under-dispenser containment.

(a) Applicability. UST systems connected to a dispenser must be equipped with under-dispenser containment meeting the requirements in (b) of this subsection if the dispenser, dispenser system, or underground piping connected to the dispenser system is installed or replaced after October 1, 2012.

(b) Performance standards. Under-dispenser containment must be:

(i) Designed and constructed to:

(A) Meet the compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350;

(B) Be liquid-tight on its sides, bottom, and at any penetrations; and

(C) Allow for visual inspection and access to the components in the containment system; and

(ii) If installed or replaced after October 1, 2018, factory-built or machine-tooled, unless otherwise approved by the department.

(7) Spill prevention equipment.

(a) Applicability. To prevent spilling associated with product transfers, UST systems filled by transfers of more than twenty-five gallons at one time must be equipped with spill prevention equipment that:

(i) Meets the requirements in (b) of this subsection; or

(ii) Is determined by the department to be no less protective of human health and the environment.

(b) Performance standards. Spill prevention equipment must be designed and constructed to:

(i) Meet the compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350;

(ii) Prevent releases when the transfer hose is detached from the fill pipe; and

(iii) Be liquid-tight on its sides, bottom, and at any penetrations.

(8) Overfill prevention equipment.

(a) Applicability. To prevent overfilling associated with product transfers, UST systems filled by transfers of more than twenty-five gallons at one time must be equipped with overfill prevention equipment that:

(i) Meets the requirements in (b) of this subsection; or

(ii) Is determined by the department to be no less protective of human health and the environment.

(b) Performance standards. Overfill prevention equipment must be designed and constructed to:

(i) Meet the compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350; and

(ii) Do one of the following:

(A) Automatically shut off flow into the tank when the tank is no more than ninety-five percent full;

(B) Automatically alert the product deliverer when the tank is no more than ninety percent full by restricting flow into the tank or triggering a high-level audible alarm; or

(C) Automatically restrict flow into the tank thirty minutes before overfilling, automatically alert the product deliverer with a high level audible alarm one minute before overfilling, or automatically shut off flow into the tank so that none of the fittings located on top of the tank are exposed to regulated substances due to overfilling.

(c) Phase out of flow restrictors. Flow restrictors used in vent lines may not be used to comply with the requirements of this subsection when overfill prevention equipment is installed, replaced, or repaired after October 1, 2018.

(9) Release detection equipment. Release detection equipment must meet the performance standards in Part 6 of this chapter.

(10) Codes of practice for previously deferred UST systems. For previously deferred UST systems, in addition to the codes of practice listed in this section, military construction criteria may be used to meet the requirements of this section, such as U.S. Department of Defense, Unified Facilities Criteria 3-460-01, "Design: Petroleum Fuel Facilities."

By December 22, 1998, owners and operators of existing UST systems were required to meet the performance standards for new UST systems in WAC 173-360A-0310 or the upgrade requirements in this section. Existing UST systems not meeting this requirement must be permanently closed in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0810 unless the tanks meet the requirements of this section and an upgrade is determined to be appropriate by the department. This section does not apply to previously deferred UST systems.

(1) Administration.

(a) The upgrades specified in this section must be performed by or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter.

(b) The upgrades specified in this section must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

(c) Records of upgrades completed after October 1, 2018, must be maintained until the UST system is permanently closed or undergoes a change-in-service.

(2) Upgrades.

(a) Corrosion protection of metal tanks. Metal tanks must be upgraded to meet one of the following requirements in accordance with a code of practice:

(i) Internal lining. A tank may be upgraded by internal lining if:

(A) The lining is installed in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490; and

(B) Within ten years after lining, and every five years thereafter, the lined tank is internally inspected in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0440 and found to be structurally sound with the lining still performing in accordance with original design specifications, unless cathodic protection is also installed within ten years of lining the tank, as specified in (a)(iii) of this subsection. If the internal lining is no longer performing in accordance with original design specifications and cannot be repaired in accordance with a code of practice, then the lined tank must be permanently closed in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0810.

(ii) Cathodic protection. A tank may be upgraded by cathodic protection if the cathodic protection system meets the requirements in WAC 173-360A-0310 (3)(b)(ii) and (iii) and the integrity of the tank is ensured using one of the following methods:

(A) The tank is internally inspected and assessed to ensure that the tank is structurally sound and free of corrosion holes before the cathodic protection system is installed;

(B) The tank has been installed or internally lined for less than ten years and is monitored monthly for releases in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0630 or 173-360A-0655 through 173-360A-0675;

(C) The tank has been installed or internally lined for less than ten years and is assessed for corrosion holes by conducting two tightness tests that meet the requirements in WAC 173-360A-0635. The first tightness test must be conducted before the cathodic protection system is installed. The second tightness test must be conducted between three and six months following the first operation of the cathodic protection system; or

(D) The tank is assessed for corrosion holes by a method that is determined by the department to prevent releases in a manner that is no less protective of human health and the environment than (a)(ii)(A) through (C) of this subsection.

(iii) Internal lining combined with cathodic protection. A tank may be upgraded by both internal lining and cathodic protection if:

(A) The lining is installed in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490; and

(B) The cathodic protection system is installed within ten years of the tank being lined and meets the requirements in WAC 173-360A-0310 (3)(b)(ii) and (iii).

(b) Corrosion protection of metal tanks - Codes of practice. The following codes of practice may have been used to meet the requirements in (a) of this subsection:

(i) American Petroleum Institute, Standard 1631, "Recommended Practice for the Interior Lining of Existing Steel Underground Storage Tanks";

(ii) National Leak Prevention Association, Standard 631, "Spill Prevention, Minimum 10 Year Life Extension of Existing Steel Underground Tanks by Lining without the Addition of Cathodic Protection";

(iii) National Association of Corrosion Engineers, Recommended Practice 0285, "Control of External Corrosion on Metallic Buried, Partially Buried, or Submerged Liquid Storage Systems";

(iv) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1632, "Cathodic Protection of Underground Petroleum Storage Tanks and Piping Systems"; or

(v) Steel Tank Institute, Publication F894-91, "Specifications for External Corrosion Protection FRP Composite Underground Steel Storage Tanks."

(c) Corrosion protection of metal piping. Metal piping routinely containing regulated substances and in contact with the ground must be cathodically protected in accordance with a code of practice and meet the requirements of WAC 173-360A-0310 (3)(b)(ii) and (iii). The codes of practice listed in WAC 173-360A-0310 (2)(a)(iv) may be used to meet this requirement.

(d) Secondary containment of tanks and piping. Tanks and piping that are part of a hazardous substance UST system must meet the secondary containment requirements in WAC 173-360A-0310 (4) and (5).

(e) Spill and overfill prevention equipment. UST systems filled by transfers of more than twenty-five gallons at one time must meet the spill and overfill prevention requirements in WAC 173-360A-0310 (7) and (8).

(f) Release detection equipment. Release detection equipment must meet the performance standards in Part 6 of this chapter.

(g) Compatibility. UST systems must meet the compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350.

By October 1, 2021, owners and operators must ensure previously deferred UST systems installed on or before October 1, 2018, meet the performance standards for new UST systems in WAC 173-360A-0310, meet the upgrade requirements in this section, or are permanently closed in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0810.

(1) Administration.

(a) The upgrades specified in this section must be performed by or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter.

(b) The upgrades specified in this section must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

(c) Records of upgrades must be maintained until the UST system is permanently closed or undergoes a change-in-service.

(2) Upgrades.

(a) Corrosion protection of tanks and piping.

(i) Tanks and piping constructed of metal must be cathodically protected in accordance with a code of practice and meet the following requirements:

(A) The cathodic protection system must meet the requirements in WAC 173-360A-0310 (3)(b)(ii) and (iii); and

(B) Tanks more than ten years old must be assessed to ensure they are structurally sound and free of corrosion holes before a cathodic protection system is installed.

(ii) The following codes of practice may be used to meet the requirements in (a)(i) of this subsection:

(A) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Standard Practice 0285, "External Control of Underground Storage Tank Systems by Cathodic Protection";

(B) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Standard Practice 0169, "Control of External Corrosion on Underground or Submerged Metallic Piping Systems";

(C) National Leak Prevention Association, Standard 631, Chapter C, "Internal Inspection of Steel Tanks for Retrofit of Cathodic Protection"; or

(D) American Society for Testing and Materials, Standard G158, "Standard Guide for Three Methods of Assessing Buried Steel Tanks."

(b) Spill and overfill prevention equipment. UST systems filled by transfers of more than twenty-five gallons at one time must meet the spill and overfill prevention requirements in WAC 173-360A-0310 (7) and (8).

(c) Release detection equipment. Release detection equipment must meet the performance standards in Part 6 of this chapter.

(d) Compatibility. UST systems must meet the compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350.

Owners and operators must ensure partially exempt UST systems identified in WAC 173-360A-0110 (2)(a)(i) through (iii) meet the performance standards of this section. This section does not apply to aboveground storage tanks associated with previously deferred UST systems and any partially exempt UST systems for which installation commenced on or before December 22, 1988.

(1) Performance standards. Partially exempt UST systems must:

(a) Prevent releases due to corrosion or structural failure for the operational life of the system;

(b) Be cathodically protected against corrosion, constructed of noncorrodible material, metal-clad with a noncorrodible material, determined by a corrosion expert to be located within a noncorrosive environment under WAC 173-360A-0310 (3)(c), or designed in a manner to prevent the release or threatened release of any regulated substance stored in the system; and

(c) Be constructed or lined with material that is compatible with the regulated substance stored in the system.

(2) Guidance. The performance standards in WAC 173-360A-0310 for new UST systems and the following codes of practice may be used as guidance for complying with this section:

(a) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Standard Practice 0285, "External Corrosion Control of Underground Storage Tank Systems by Cathodic Protection";

(b) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Standard Practice 0169, "Control of External Corrosion on Underground or Submerged Metallic Piping Systems";

(c) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1632, "Cathodic Protection of Underground Petroleum Storage Tanks and Piping Systems"; or

(d) Steel Tank Institute, Recommended Practice R892, "Recommended Practice for Corrosion Protection of Underground Piping Networks Associated with Liquid Storage and Dispensing Systems."

(1) Performance standard for all UST systems. Owners and operators must ensure that all UST system components are made of or lined with materials that are compatible with the regulated substances stored in the UST system.

(2) Demonstrations for selected UST systems. Owners and operators of UST systems storing hazardous substances, regulated substances containing greater than ten percent ethanol or twenty percent biodiesel, or any other regulated substances identified by the department must also comply with the requirements of this subsection.

(a) Options. Owners and operators must either:

(i) Demonstrate compatibility of the UST system (including tanks, piping, containment sumps, pumping equipment, release detection equipment, spill prevention equipment, and overfill prevention equipment) by using one of the following options:

(A) Certification or listing of equipment or components by a nationally recognized, independent testing laboratory for use with the regulated substance stored; or

(B) Approval by the equipment or component manufacturer. The manufacturer's approval must be in writing, indicate an affirmative statement of compatibility, and specify the hazardous substances or range of biofuel blends with which the equipment or component is compatible; or

(ii) Use another option determined by the department to be no less protective of human health and the environment than the options specified in (a)(i) of this subsection.

(b) Reporting. When changing the regulated substance stored in an UST system, owners and operators must notify the department and report compliance with (a) of this subsection in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0410(1).

(c) Recordkeeping. Owners and operators must maintain all records documenting compliance with (a) of this subsection until the UST system is permanently closed or undergoes a change-in-service.

(3) Guidance. The following code of practice may be used as guidance for complying with this section: American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1626, "Storing and Handling Ethanol and Gasoline-Ethanol Blends at Distribution Terminals and Filling Stations."

Owners and operators must ensure delivery of regulated substances to UST systems and withdrawal of regulated substances from waste oil UST systems are authorized and do not result in spills or overfills.

(1) Authority to deliver or deposit. Without the prior written authorization of the department, owners and operators may not accept the delivery or deposit of regulated substances into an UST system if:

(a) The owners and operators do not have a valid and current license to operate the UST system (WAC 173-360A-0200(1));

(b) A valid facility compliance tag is not properly displayed at the UST facility where the UST system is located (RCW 90.76.050(2) and WAC 173-360A-0220(1) and 173-360A-0280(4));

(c) A red tag is attached to the fill pipe of the UST system (RCW 90.76.050(2) and WAC 173-360A-0280(4)); or

(d) A release from the UST system has been confirmed and the system has not been repaired.

(2) Authority to withdraw waste oil. Without the prior written authorization of the department, owners and operators may not allow the withdrawal of regulated substances from a waste oil UST system if:

(a) The owners and operators do not have a valid and current license to operate the UST system (WAC 173-360A-0200(1));

(b) A valid facility compliance tag is not properly displayed at the UST facility where the UST system is located (WAC 173-360A-0220(1) and 173-360A-0280(5)); or

(c) A red tag is attached to the fill pipe of the UST system (WAC 173-360A-0280(5)).

(3) Spill and overfill control. To prevent spills and overfills during the transfer of regulated substances into an UST system, owners and operators must ensure that:

(a) Before the transfer, the volume available in a tank is greater than the volume of regulated substances to be transferred into the tank;

(b) During the transfer, the transfer operation is monitored constantly; and

(c) The transfer is performed in accordance with a code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(i) National Fire Protection Association, Standard 385, "Standard for Tank Vehicles for Flammable and Combustible Liquids";

(ii) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1007, "Loading and Unloading of MC 306/DOT 406 Cargo Tank Motor Vehicles"; or

(iii) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1621, "Bulk Liquid Stock Control at Retail Outlets."

(4) Reporting spills and overfills. Owners and operators must report, investigate, and clean up any spill or overfill of regulated substances in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0740.

Product deliverers must ensure delivery of regulated substances to UST systems are authorized and do not result in spills or overfills. Waste oil collectors must ensure withdrawals of regulated substances from waste oil UST systems are authorized.

(1) Authority to deliver or deposit. Without the prior written authorization of the department, a product deliverer may not deliver or deposit regulated substances into an UST system if:

(a) A valid facility compliance tag is not properly displayed at the UST facility where the UST system is located (RCW 90.76.050(1) and WAC 173-360A-0220(1) and 173-360A-0280(4));

(b) A red tag is attached to the fill pipe of the UST system (RCW 90.76.050(1) and WAC 173-360A-0280(4)); or

(c) The product deliverer knows that a release from the UST system has been confirmed and the UST system has not been repaired, regardless of whether a facility compliance tag is properly displayed at the UST facility.

(2) Authority to withdraw waste oil. Without the prior written authorization of the department, persons may not withdraw regulated substances from a waste oil UST system if:

(a) A valid facility compliance tag is not properly displayed at the UST facility where the UST system is located (WAC 173-360A-0220(1) and 173-360A-0280(5)); or

(b) A red tag is attached to the fill pipe of the UST system (WAC 173-360A-0280(5)).

(3) Spill and overfill control. To prevent spills and overfills during the transfer of regulated substances into an UST system, product deliverers must comply with the requirements in WAC 173-360A-0400(3).

(4) Reporting spills and overfills. Product deliverers and waste oil collectors must report any spill or overfill of regulated substances, including into spill prevention equipment, immediately to the owner or operator.

Owners and operators must notify the department of any changes in the regulated substances stored in an UST system and document compatibility in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(1) When changing to a hazardous substance, a regulated substance containing greater than ten percent ethanol or twenty percent biodiesel, or any other regulated substance identified by the department, owners and operators must notify the department and report compliance with the compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350(2) at least thirty days before making the change using the applicable form provided by the department.

(2) When changing to any other regulated substance, owners and operators must notify the department within thirty days after making the change using the applicable form provided by the department.

Owners and operators must comply with the walkthrough inspection requirements of this section to ensure UST systems are properly operated and maintained.

(1) Inspections. Operation and maintenance walkthrough inspections must be performed in accordance with the following requirements or a code of practice that provides for comparable inspections. The following code of practice may be used to meet this requirement: Petroleum Equipment Institute, Recommended Practice 900, "Recommended Practices for the Inspection and Maintenance of UST Systems."

(a) Thirty-day inspections. Spill prevention equipment and release detection equipment must be inspected at least every thirty days. However, for UST systems receiving deliveries of regulated substances less frequently than every thirty days, spill prevention equipment only needs to be inspected prior to each delivery.

(i) Spill prevention equipment. Inspections of spill prevention equipment must include:

(A) Visually checking the spill prevention equipment for damage;

(B) Removing any liquid or debris from the spill prevention equipment;

(C) Checking for and removing obstructions in the fill pipe;

(D) Checking the fill cap to make sure it is securely on the fill pipe; and

(E) For double-walled spill prevention equipment with interstitial monitoring, checking for a leak in the interstitial area.

(ii) Release detection equipment. Inspections of release detection equipment must include:

(A) Checking to make sure the release detection equipment is operating with no alarms or other unusual operating conditions present; and

(B) Ensuring records of release detection testing are reviewed and current and the results are conclusive.

(b) Annual inspections. Containment sumps and hand-held release detection equipment must be inspected at least annually.

(i) Containment sumps. Inspections of containment sumps must include:

(A) Visually checking the containment sumps for damage, leaks to the containment area, or releases to the environment;

(B) Removing any liquid or debris from the containment sumps; and

(C) For double-walled containment sumps with interstitial monitoring, checking for a leak in the interstitial area; and

(ii) Hand-held release detection equipment. Inspections of hand-held release detection equipment must confirm the operability and serviceability of devices such as tank gauge sticks and groundwater bailers.

(c) Additional inspections for airport hydrant systems. For airport hydrant systems, hydrant pits and hydrant piping vaults must also be inspected at least every thirty days, if confined spaced entry is not required under 29 C.F.R. Part 1910 according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or at least annually if confined spaced entry is required.

(i) Hydrant pits. Inspections of hydrant pits must include:

(A) Visually checking for any damage;

(B) Removing any liquid or debris; and

(C) Checking for any leaks.

(ii) Hydrant piping vaults. Inspections of hydrant piping vaults must include checking for any hydrant piping leaks.

(2) Repairs. Any UST system component that is not operating properly must be repaired in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490 or replaced in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0300.

(3) Documentation. Operation and maintenance walkthrough inspections must be documented in a checklist provided by the department or the code of practice used to perform the inspection. The following information must be included in the checklist:

(a) A list of each UST system component inspected;

(b) For each component inspected, whether the component needed action taken to correct an issue; and

(c) For each component needing action taken to correct an issue, a description of the actions taken.

(4) Recordkeeping. Records of operation and maintenance walkthrough inspections must be maintained for at least three years. If spill prevention equipment is checked less frequently than every thirty days due to infrequent deliveries, delivery records must also be maintained in accordance with this requirement.

(5) Compliance dates. The operation and maintenance walkthrough inspections required in this section must begin by the following dates:

(a) For UST systems installed after October 1, 2018, upon installation; and

(b) For UST systems installed on or before October 1, 2018, by October 1, 2019.

Owners and operators of UST systems with corrosion protection must comply with the requirements of this section to ensure the equipment is operating properly and will prevent releases to the environment due to corrosion until the UST system is permanently closed or undergoes a change-in-service.

(1) Corrosion protection systems. All corrosion protection systems must be operated and maintained to continuously provide corrosion protection to the metal components of that portion of the tank and piping that routinely contain regulated substances and are in contact with the ground.

(2) Testing of cathodic protection systems. Upon installation or repair, between one and six months after installation or repair, and every three years thereafter, cathodic protection systems must be tested as follows to ensure they are operating properly.

(a) Performance. Cathodic protection tests must be performed:

(i) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(ii) In accordance with a code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(A) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Test Method TM0101, "Measurement Techniques Related to Criteria for Cathodic Protection of Underground Storage Tank Systems";

(B) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Test Method TM0497, "Measurement Techniques Related to Criteria for Cathodic Protection on Underground or Submerged Metallic Piping Systems";

(C) Steel Tank Institute, Recommended Practice R051, "Cathodic Protection Testing Procedures for STI–P3R USTs";

(D) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Standard Practice 0285, "External Control of Underground Storage Tank Systems by Cathodic Protection"; or

(E) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Standard Practice 0169, "Control of External Corrosion on Underground or Submerged Metallic Piping Systems."

(b) Repairs. Cathodic protection systems that are not operating properly must be repaired in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490 or replaced in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0300, as specified by a corrosion expert.

(c) Reporting. Cathodic protection tests must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

(d) Recordkeeping. Records of cathodic protection tests must be maintained for at least six years.

(3) Inspections of impressed current cathodic protection systems. At least every sixty days, impressed current cathodic protection systems must be inspected to ensure the rectifier is on and the equipment is operating properly.

(a) Performance. Rectifier inspections must include checking whether the rectifier is turned on and whether the voltage and amperage readings are within the ranges specified during the last cathodic protection test.

(b) Repairs. If a rectifier is not functioning or the voltage or amperage readings are not within the range specified for the cathodic protection system:

(i) A corrosion expert or cathodic protection tester must be notified within twenty-four hours; and

(ii) The cathodic protection system must be repaired in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490 or replaced in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0300, as specified by a corrosion expert.

(c) Documentation. Rectifier inspections must be documented on the checklist provided by the department or on another record that includes the same information.

(d) Recordkeeping. Records of rectifier inspections must be maintained for at least three years.

Owners and operators of UST systems with internal linings used to meet the upgrade requirements in WAC 173-360A-0320 (2)(a)(i) must comply with the requirements of this section.

(1) Inspections. Within ten years after lining and every five years thereafter, lined tanks must be internally inspected to determine whether the tanks remain structurally sound and the linings are still performing in accordance with the original design specifications. Internal inspections must be performed:

(a) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(b) In accordance with a code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(i) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1631, "Interior Lining and Periodic Inspection of Underground Storage Tanks";

(ii) National Leak Prevention Association, Standard 631, Chapter B, "Future Internal Inspection Requirements for Lined Tanks"; or

(iii) Ken Wilcox Associates, Recommended Practice, "Recommended Practice for Inspecting Buried Lined Steel Tanks Using a Video Camera."

(2) Repairs.

(a) Following invasive internal inspections, tanks must be repaired and tightness tested in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490.

(b) Lined tanks failing an internal inspection must be repaired and tightness tested in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490. Lined tanks that cannot be repaired in accordance with a code of practice must be permanently closed in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0810.

(3) Reporting. Internal inspections of lined tanks must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

(4) Recordkeeping. Records of internal inspections of lined tanks must be maintained until the UST system is permanently closed or undergoes a change-in-service.

Owners and operators of UST systems with containment sumps used for interstitial monitoring of piping must comply with the requirements of this section and the walkthrough inspection requirements in WAC 173-360A-0420 to ensure the equipment is operating properly and will prevent releases to the environment.

(1) Periodic monitoring or testing. Containment sumps used for interstitial monitoring of piping must meet one of the following requirements:

(a) The containment sump is double-walled and the integrity of both walls is monitored at least annually as part of the walkthrough inspection in WAC 173-360A-0420 (1)(b)(i)(C). If monitoring is discontinued, the containment sump must be tightness tested in accordance with (b) of this subsection within thirty days; or

(b) The containment sump is tightness tested at least every three years to ensure it is liquid tight. The tightness test must be performed:

(i) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(ii) Using a vacuum, pressure, or liquid test (including a low level liquid test) performed in accordance with:

(A) The manufacturer's instructions;

(B) A code of practice. The following code of practice may be used to meet this requirement: Petroleum Equipment Institute, Recommended Practice 1200, "Recommended Practices for the Testing and Verification of Spill, Overfill, Leak Detection and Secondary Containment Equipment at UST Facilities"; or

(C) Requirements determined by the department to be no less protective of human health and the environment.

(2) Repairs. Containment sumps that are not operating properly must be repaired in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490 or replaced in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0300.

(3) Reporting. Tightness tests of containment sumps must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

(4) Recordkeeping.

(a) Records of periodic monitoring of containment sumps must be maintained for at least three years. The records must demonstrate that the sumps are double-walled and the integrity of both walls is periodically monitored.

(b) Records of tightness tests of containment sumps must be maintained for at least six years.

(5) Compliance dates. The periodic monitoring or tightness testing of containment sumps required under this section must begin by the following dates:

(a) For UST systems installed after October 1, 2018, upon installation; and

(b) For UST systems installed on or before October 1, 2018:

(i) If the UST facility has an even facility compliance tag identification number, by October 1, 2020; and

(ii) If the UST facility has an odd facility compliance tag identification number or does not have a facility compliance tag, by October 1, 2021.

Owners and operators of UST systems with spill prevention equipment must comply with the requirements of this section and the walkthrough inspection requirements in WAC 173-360A-0420 to ensure the equipment is operating properly and will prevent releases to the environment.

(1) Periodic monitoring or testing. Spill prevention equipment must meet one of the following requirements:

(a) The equipment is double-walled and the integrity of both walls is monitored at least every thirty days, or prior to delivery of regulated substances if less frequent, as part of the walkthrough inspection in WAC 173-360A-0420 (1)(a)(i)(E). If monitoring is discontinued, the equipment must be tightness tested in accordance with (b) of this subsection within thirty days; or

(b) The equipment is tightness tested at least every three years. The tightness test must be performed:

(i) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(ii) Using a vacuum, pressure, or liquid test performed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions or a code of practice. The following code of practice may be used to meet this requirement: Petroleum Equipment Institute, Recommended Practice 1200, "Recommended Practices for the Testing and Verification of Spill, Overfill, Leak Detection and Secondary Containment Equipment at UST Facilities."

(2) Repairs. Spill prevention equipment that is not operating properly must be repaired in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490 or replaced in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0300.

(3) Reporting. Tightness tests of spill prevention equipment must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

(4) Recordkeeping.

(a) Records of periodic monitoring of spill prevention equipment must be maintained for at least three years. The records must demonstrate that the equipment is double-walled and the integrity of both walls is periodically monitored.

(b) Records of tightness tests of spill prevention equipment must be maintained for at least six years.

(5) Compliance dates. The periodic monitoring or tightness testing of spill prevention equipment required under this section must begin by the following dates:

(a) For UST systems installed after October 1, 2018, upon installation; and

(b) For UST systems installed on or before October 1, 2018:

(i) If the UST facility has an even facility compliance tag identification number, by October 1, 2020; and

(ii) If the UST facility has an odd facility compliance tag identification number or does not have a facility compliance tag, by October 1, 2021.

Owners and operators of UST systems with overfill prevention equipment must comply with the requirements of this section to ensure the equipment is operating properly and will prevent releases to the environment.

(1) Inspections. Overfill prevention equipment must be inspected to verify functionality at least once every three years. At a minimum, the inspection must ensure that the equipment is set to activate at the applicable level specified in WAC 173-360A-0310(8) and will activate when regulated substances reach that level. Inspections must be performed:

(a) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(b) In accordance with the manufacturer's instructions or a code of practice. The following code of practice may be used to meet this requirement: Petroleum Equipment Institute, Recommended Practice 1200, "Recommended Practices for the Testing and Verification of Spill, Overfill, Leak Detection and Secondary Containment Equipment at UST Facilities."

(2) Repairs. Overfill prevention equipment that is not operating properly must be repaired in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490 or replaced in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0300. Flow restrictors used in vent lines that are not operating properly must be replaced with another type of overfill prevention equipment (WAC 173-360A-0310 (8)(c)).

(3) Reporting. Overfill prevention equipment inspections must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

(4) Recordkeeping. Records of overfill prevention equipment inspections must be maintained for at least six years.

(5) Compliance dates. The inspections of overfill prevention equipment required under this section must begin by the following dates:

(a) For UST systems installed after October 1, 2018, upon installation; and

(b) For UST systems installed on or before October 1, 2018:

(i) If the UST facility has an even facility compliance tag identification number, by October 1, 2020; and

(ii) If the UST facility has an odd facility compliance tag identification number or does not have a facility compliance tag, by October 1, 2021.

Owners and operators must operate and maintain release detection equipment in accordance with the requirements of this section and the walkthrough inspection requirements in WAC 173-360A-0420 to ensure the equipment is operating properly and will detect leaks from tanks and piping.

(1) General. Release detection equipment must be operated and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions or a code of practice. The following code of practice may be used to meet this requirement: Petroleum Equipment Institute, Recommended Practice 1200, "Recommended Practices for the Testing and Verification of Spill, Overfill, Leak Detection and Secondary Containment Equipment at UST Facilities."

(2) Testing. Release detection equipment that is electronic or mechanical must be tested at least annually.

(a) Performance. Tests of release detection equipment must be performed:

(i) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(ii) In accordance with the requirements in subsection (1) of this section.

(b) Minimum. Tests of release detection equipment must include the following, as applicable to the UST system:

(i) Automatic tank gauges and other controllers: Test proper operation of alarms, verify system configuration, and test battery backups;

(ii) Probes and sensors: Inspect for residual buildup, ensure floats move freely, ensure shafts are not damaged, ensure cables are free of kinks and breaks, and test alarm operability and communication with controller;

(iii) Automatic line leak detectors: Test operation to determine whether the detectors meet the performance standards in WAC 173-360A-0640 by simulating a leak from the entire piping run being monitored;

(iv) Vacuum pumps and pressure gauges: Ensure proper communication with sensors and controller; and

(v) Hand-held electronic sampling equipment associated with groundwater and vapor monitoring: Ensure proper operation.

(3) Repairs. Release detection equipment that is not operating properly must be recalibrated or otherwise repaired in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490 or replaced in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0300.

(4) Reporting. Tests of release detection equipment must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider. The following must be documented in the checklist:

(a) List of each component tested;

(b) For each component tested, whether the component needed action to correct an issue; and

(c) For each component needing action to correct an issue, a description of the actions taken.

(5) Recordkeeping. Records of operation and maintenance of release detection equipment, including any tests required under this section, must be maintained for at least three years. Any schedules of required calibration and maintenance provided by the equipment manufacturer must be maintained for as long as the equipment is used.

(6) Compliance dates. The testing of automatic line leak detectors under subsection (2)(b)(iii) of this section has been required since December 29, 1990, and continues to be required. The testing of all other release detection equipment required under this section must begin by the following dates:

(a) For UST systems installed after October 1, 2018, upon installation; and

(b) For UST systems installed on or before October 1, 2018:

(i) If the UST facility has an even facility compliance tag identification number, by October 1, 2020; and

(ii) If the UST facility has an odd facility compliance tag identification number or does not have a facility compliance tag, by October 1, 2021.

Owners and operators must ensure that UST system components that do not meet applicable performance standards or upgrade requirements or that are not operating properly are repaired or replaced. Owners and operators must ensure that repairs are performed in accordance with the requirements of this section and will prevent releases due to structural failure or corrosion as long as the UST system is used to store regulated substances.

(1) Performance of repairs. Repairs must be performed:

(a) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(b) In accordance with the manufacturer's instructions or a code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(i) National Fire Protection Association, Standard 30, "Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code";

(ii) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 2200, "Repairing Crude Oil, Liquified Petroleum Gas, and Product Pipelines";

(iii) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1631, "Interior Lining and Periodic Inspection of Underground Storage Tanks";

(iv) National Fire Protection Association, Standard 326, "Standard for the Safeguarding of Tanks and Containers for Entry, Cleaning, or Repair";

(v) National Leak Prevention Association, Standard 631, Chapter A, "Entry, Cleaning, Interior Inspection, Repair, and Lining of Underground Storage Tanks";

(vi) Steel Tank Institute, Recommended Practice R972, "Recommended Practice for the Addition of Supplemental Anodes to STI–P3R Tanks";

(vii) National Association of Corrosion Engineers International, Standard Practice 0285, "External Control of Underground Storage Tank Systems by Cathodic Protection"; or

(viii) Fiberglass Tank and Pipe Institute, Recommended Practice T-95-02, "Remanufacturing of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Underground Storage Tanks."

(2) Standards for repairs. Repaired UST system components must meet the applicable performance standards or upgrade requirements in Part 3 of this chapter.

(3) Replacement of metal piping and fittings. Metal piping and fittings that have released regulated substances due to corrosion or other damage must be replaced.

(4) Tests and inspections after repairs. Repaired UST system components must be tested or inspected after the repair as specified in this subsection.

(a) Tanks and piping. Repaired tanks and piping must be tightness tested as specified in WAC 173-360A-0635 and 173-360A-0650 within thirty days of the repair unless another test method is used that is determined by the department to be no less protective of human health and the environment. Except as provided under (b) of this subsection, cathodic protection systems of repaired tanks or piping must be tested as specified in WAC 173-360A-0430(2) within six months of the repair;

(b) Cathodic protection systems. Repaired cathodic protection systems must be tested as specified in WAC 173-360A-0430(2) at the time of the repair and between one and six months after the repair.

(c) Secondary containment areas of tanks and piping. Repaired secondary containment areas of tanks and piping used for interstitial monitoring must be tightness tested as follows within thirty days of the repair.

(i) Performance. Tightness tests of secondary containment areas of tanks and piping must be performed:

(A) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(B) In accordance with the manufacturer's instructions or a code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(I) Steel Tank Institute Recommended Practice R012, "Recommended Practice for Interstitial Tightness Testing of Existing Underground Double Wall Steel Tanks";

(II) Fiberglass Tank and Pipe Institute Protocol, "Field Test Protocol for Testing the Annular Space of Installed Underground Fiberglass Double and Triple-Wall Tanks with Dry Annular Space"; or

(III) Petroleum Equipment Institute, Recommended Practice 1200, "Recommended Practices for the Testing and Verification of Spill, Overfill, Leak Detection and Secondary Containment Equipment at UST Facilities.

(ii) Reporting. Tightness tests of secondary containment areas of tanks and piping must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

(iii) Recordkeeping. Records of tightness tests of secondary containment areas of tanks and piping must be maintained for at least three years.

(d) Containment sumps used for interstitial monitoring. Repaired containment sumps used for interstitial monitoring of piping must be tightness tested as specified in WAC 173-360A-0450 within thirty days of the repair.

(e) Spill prevention equipment. Repaired spill prevention equipment must be tightness tested as specified in WAC 173-360A-0460 within thirty days of the repair.

(f) Overfill prevention equipment. Repaired overfill prevention equipment must be inspected as specified in WAC 173-360A-0470 within thirty days of the repair.

(g) Release detection equipment. Repaired electronic or mechanical release detection equipment must be tested as specified in WAC 173-360A-0480 within thirty days of the repair.

(5) Reporting repairs. Repairs must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

(6) Recordkeeping. Records of repairs must be maintained until the UST system is permanently closed or undergoes a change-in-service. Records of tests and inspections of repaired UST system components must be maintained in accordance with the applicable requirements of this chapter.

(1) This part establishes a mandatory operator training program for three distinct classes of individuals who operate and maintain UST systems. The program is designed to prevent and mitigate releases from UST systems by ensuring that those individuals know how to properly operate and maintain those systems and respond to any spills, overfills, leaks, or releases from those systems.

(2) Owners and operators of an UST system must continuously comply with the requirements of this part from installation until permanent closure or change-in-service of the UST system, including during any period of temporary closure.

UST system owners and operators must designate individuals as Class A, Class B, and Class C operators in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(1) At least one Class A and one Class B operator must be designated for each UST system or group of systems at a UST facility.

(2) Each individual who meets the definition of Class C operator at a UST facility must be designated as a Class C operator.

(3) Separate individuals may be designated for each operator class or an individual may be designated to more than one operator class.

UST system owners and operators must ensure that each Class A, Class B, and Class C operator is trained in accordance with the requirements in WAC 173-360A-0530 by the dates specified in this section.

(1) Class A and Class B operators must be trained within sixty days of assuming duties of the operator class.

(2) Class C operators must be trained before assuming duties of the operator class.

UST system owners and operators must ensure that each Class A, Class B, and Class C operator is trained in accordance with the requirements of this section. Any individual designated for more than one operator class must successfully complete the training required for each operator class that the individual is designated. The training required under this section for Class A and Class B operators is the same.

(1) Class A and Class B operators. Each individual designated as a Class A and/or a Class B operator must successfully complete a classroom, computer, or field-based training program or examination that:

(a) Is developed and administered by the department, an UST system owner or operator approved by the department, or an independent third party approved by the department;

(b) Covers the following subject areas and associated requirements in this chapter. Training programs and examinations may be facility-specific:

(i) Administrative requirements, including:

(A) Licensing and fees;

(B) Facility compliance tags;

(C) Authority to accept product delivery;

(D) Financial responsibility; and

(E) Reporting and recordkeeping;

(ii) Certification and use of service providers;

(iii) Compliance inspections and enforcement;

(iv) Overview of UST systems and UST system components;

(v) Product and equipment compatibility and demonstration;

(vi) Installation and repair requirements;

(vii) Spill and overfill prevention;

(viii) Release detection;

(ix) Corrosion protection and internal lining;

(x) Secondary and under-dispenser containment;

(xi) Operation and maintenance requirements, including inspections and testing;

(xii) Release reporting and confirmation requirements;

(xiii) Overview of site assessment requirements;

(xiv) Overview of cleanup requirements for releases, including the applicability of chapter 173-340 WAC;

(xv) Temporary closure, permanent closure, and change-in-service requirements;

(xvi) Operator training requirements, including training of Class C operators; and

(xvii) Any other subject areas specified by the department; and

(c) Includes an evaluation of operator knowledge, such as testing or practical examination, that reasonably determines whether the operator has the necessary knowledge and skills to meet the responsibilities of the class.

(2) Class C operators. Each Class C operator must successfully complete a classroom, computer, or field-based training program that:

(a) Is developed and administered by the department, a trained Class A or Class B operator, or an independent third party approved by the department;

(b) Provides training on how to respond to emergencies and alarms, including:

(i) Locating emergency response equipment;

(ii) Operating any emergency shut-off systems;

(iii) Identifying and responding to any alarms; and

(iv) Responding to and notifying appropriate authorities of any spills or releases; and

(c) Includes an evaluation of operator knowledge, such as testing or practical examination, that reasonably determines whether the operator has the necessary knowledge and skills to meet the responsibilities of the class.

(3) Reciprocity for out-of-state training. Class A and Class B operators previously designated in another state or at a tribal UST facility are deemed to meet the training requirements in subsection (1) of this section if:

(a) They successfully completed a training program or examination meeting the requirements of that state or 40 C.F.R. Part 280, as applicable; and

(b) They possess the training records required under WAC 173-360A-0560(2) and the records identify the state where they were designated and trained.

(4) Acceptance of prior in-state training. Except as provided under WAC 173-360A-0540, retraining is not required when the training requirements in this section are changed.

(5) Revision of existing training programs and examinations for Class A and Class B operators. Training programs and examinations for Class A and/or Class B operators approved by the department on or before October 1, 2018, must be revised to reflect the changes to the training requirements in subsection (1)(b) of this section. Revised training programs and examinations must be submitted to the department for approval by April 1, 2019. The department will approve or reject revised training programs and examinations, and provide written notice of its decision and reasons for any rejection.

UST system owners and operators must ensure that Class A and Class B operators are retrained, as applicable, in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(1) Applicability. If the department determines the owners and operators of an UST system are not in compliance with the requirements of this chapter, the department may require the Class A and Class B operators of that system to be retrained in accordance with subsection (2) of this section.

(2) Requirements. Within sixty days of receipt of the department's determination of noncompliance, Class A and Class B operators requiring retraining must successfully complete a training program or comparable examination meeting the requirements in WAC 173-360A-0530(1) and submit a copy of the certificate of completion to the department. At a minimum, the retraining must cover the areas determined to be out of compliance.

UST system owners and operators must ensure that operation and maintenance plans are developed and maintained, as applicable, in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(1) Applicability. If the department determines the owners and operators of an UST system are not in compliance with the requirements of this chapter, the department may require the owners and operators to develop an operation and maintenance plan for each UST system at the UST facility where the noncompliant system is located. The department may require the development of such a plan in place of or in addition to any retraining of Class A or Class B operators required under WAC 173-360A-0540.

(2) Development. Operation and maintenance plans for UST systems must be developed and a copy submitted to the department within sixty days of receipt of the department's determination of noncompliance.

(3) Updates. The operation and maintenance plan for an UST system must be updated within sixty days of any modification of the system that changes how the system must be operated and maintained under this chapter.

(4) Content. At a minimum, the operation and maintenance plan for an UST system must include the actions required under this chapter to operate and maintain the system, including as applicable:

(a) Release detection;

(b) Spill and overfill prevention;

(c) Corrosion protection;

(d) Internal lining; and

(e) Containment sumps.

(5) Recordkeeping. Operation and maintenance plans for UST systems must be maintained until the systems are permanently closed or undergo a change-in-service.

(1) Presence of operators. While a UST facility is manned, UST system owners and operators must ensure at least one of the individuals manning the facility is a properly trained Class A, Class B, or Class C operator.

(2) Signage. At each UST facility, UST system owners and operators must post and maintain signage providing emergency response information. The signage must:

(a) Be posted in prominent areas of the facility that are easily visible to individuals who dispense or deliver regulated substances;

(b) Identify the location of fire extinguishers and any emergency shut-off devices at the facility; and

(c) Provide instructions on what to do in case of an emergency at the facility. At a minimum, the instructions must include the following or equivalent wording:

(Name and address of facility)

(Insert if applicable: Use emergency shut off)

Call the fire department: (911 or local fire department telephone number)

Call the facility operator: (24-hour telephone number)

UST system owners and operators must maintain records documenting all currently designated Class A, Class B, and Class C operators at a UST facility and the training received by those operators.

(1) Designated operators. Records documenting Class A, Class B, and Class C operators at a UST facility must include the following information:

(a) The facility's name, address, and compliance tag number; and

(b) For each individual designated at the facility:

(i) The name of the individual;

(ii) The UST systems and operator classes to which the individual has been designated;

(iii) The date the individual assumed the duties of each operator class; and

(iv) The date the individual completed initial training and any required retraining for each operator class.

(2) Training of designated operators. Records documenting the initial training and any required retraining of Class A, Class B, and Class C operators must include a certificate of completion. Certificates must include the following information:

(a) The name of the trainee;

(b) The date the trainee completed the training;

(c) The operator class or classes covered by the training;

(d) The name of the company providing the training; and

(e) For classroom and field-based training, the printed name and signature of the trainer or examiner.

Owners and operators must monitor tanks and underground piping for leaks in accordance with the requirements of this part. This section specifies general release detection requirements. WAC 173-360A-0610 and 173-360A-0615 identify allowed release detection methods for monitoring tanks and piping. WAC 173-360A-0620 through 173-360A-0675 specify requirements for each release detection method.

(1) Applicability. The following tanks and underground piping must be monitored for leaks in accordance with this part:

(a) Any portion of a tank that routinely contains regulated substances; and

(b) Any underground piping that routinely contains regulated substances. However, underground piping conveying regulated substances under suction does not need to be monitored for leaks if the piping is designed and constructed to meet the following standards:

(i) The below-grade piping operates at less than atmospheric pressure;

(ii) The below-grade piping is sloped so that the contents of the pipe will drain back into the storage tank if the suction is released;

(iii) Only one check valve is included in each suction line;

(iv) The check valve is located directly below and as close as practical to the suction pump; and

(v) A method is provided that allows compliance with (b)(i) through (iv) of this subsection to be readily determined.

(2) Closure of UST systems. Any UST system that cannot be monitored for leaks in accordance with the requirements of this part must be closed in accordance with Part 8 of this chapter.

(3) Release detection methods. Tanks and underground piping must be monitored for leaks using one of the applicable methods, or combination of methods, of release detection specified in WAC 173-360A-0610 and 173-360A-0615. Results from periodic release detection must be conclusive.

(4) Notification of changes in methods. Within thirty days after any change in release detection methods used, owners and operators must notify the department in writing.

(5) Performance standards for methods. Release detection methods must be able to meet:

(a) The performance standards specified for the method in this part, with any performance claims and their manner of determination described in writing by the manufacturer, vendor, or installer; and

(b) The compatibility requirements in WAC 173-360A-0350.

(6) Certification of methods or equipment. Except for inventory control (WAC 173-360A-0620) and weekly manual tank gauging (WAC 173-360A-0625), the methods or equipment used to perform release detection must be certified in writing by the manufacturer or vendor or an independent third party as capable of meeting the performance standards specified for the release detection method in this part using a test procedure:

(a) Developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency;

(b) Developed by a nationally or internationally recognized association or independent testing laboratory; or

(c) Deemed equivalent by a nationally or internationally recognized association or independent testing laboratory to a test procedure developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

(7) Performance of release detection. Release detection must be performed in accordance with:

(a) Any requirements specified for the method in this part;

(b) Any instructions specified by the equipment manufacturer; and

(c) Any conditions or limitations specified in the certifications required under subsection (6) of this section, if applicable.

(8) Suspected releases. When the results of release detection under this part indicate a release may have occurred, the suspected release must be reported and investigated in accordance with Part 7 of this chapter. The establishment of leak indication thresholds is a means of setting a standard for the equipment or method used. It is not intended to imply that actual leak rates or quantities less than the thresholds are allowable. No release is acceptable, and any indication that a release may have occurred should be reported and investigated in accordance with Part 7 of this chapter.

(9) Recordkeeping. Records of release detection must document compliance with this part, including the following:

(a) Any certifications of release detection methods or equipment required under this part. Certifications must be maintained for as long as the method or equipment is used;

(b) Any site evaluations required under WAC 173-360A-0660 or 173-360A-0665 for using vapor monitoring or groundwater monitoring as a release detection method. Site evaluations must be maintained for as long as the method is used; and

(c) The performance of release detection required under this part, including the results of all monitoring, testing, and sampling.

(i) For tank tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0635), line tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0650), and vapor monitoring using a tracer compound in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0610 (3)(d) or 173-360A-0615 (3)(b), at least the last two test results must be maintained.

(ii) For all other release detection methods, results must be maintained for at least three years.

Owners and operators must monitor tanks for leaks using the methods, or combination of methods, of release detection specified in this section.

(1) Tanks requiring secondary containment. Tanks requiring secondary containment under WAC 173-360A-0310 (4)(a) must be monitored for leaks at least every thirty days using interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0655).

(2) Tanks not requiring secondary containment. Except as provided for previously deferred UST systems under subsection (3) of this section, tanks not requiring secondary containment under WAC 173-360A-0310 (4)(a) must be monitored for leaks at least every thirty days (except as otherwise provided) using one of the following methods, or combination of methods, of release detection:

(a) Combination of inventory control (WAC 173-360A-0620) and tank tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0635). Tank tightness testing must be performed at least every five years. This combination of methods may be used only if the tank has been installed for less than ten years;

(b) Combination of weekly manual tank gauging (WAC 173-360A-0625) and tank tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0635). Tank tightness testing must be performed at least every five years. This combination of methods may be used only if:

(i) The tank has been installed for less than ten years; and

(ii) The tank's capacity is less than or equal to two thousand gallons;

(c) Weekly manual tank gauging (WAC 173-360A-0625). This method may be used as the sole method of release detection only if:

(i) The tank's capacity is less than or equal to five hundred fifty gallons; or

(ii) The tank's capacity is five hundred fifty-one gallons to one thousand gallons and the tank's diameter is either sixty-four inches or forty-eight inches;

(d) Automatic tank gauging (WAC 173-360A-0630);

(e) Interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0655). This method may be used only if the tank is secondarily contained and meets the performance standards in WAC 173-360A-0310 (4)(b);

(f) Vapor monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0660);

(g) Groundwater monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0665);

(h) Statistical inventory reconciliation (WAC 173-360A-0670); or

(i) Other release detection methods (WAC 173-360A-0675).

(3) Additional methods for certain previously deferred UST systems. Field-constructed tanks not requiring secondary containment under WAC 173-360A-0310 (4)(a) with a capacity greater than fifty thousand gallons must be monitored for leaks in accordance with subsection (2) of this section or using one of the following methods, or combination of methods, of release detection:

(a) Tank tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0635) performed at least annually, except the method must be able to detect a 0.5 gallon per hour leak rate;

(b) Combination of automatic tank gauging (WAC 173-360A-0630) performed at least every thirty days, except the method must be able to detect a one gallon per hour leak rate, and tank tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0635) performed at least every three years, except the method must be able to detect a 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate;

(c) Combination of automatic tank gauging (WAC 173-360A-0630) performed at least every thirty days, except the method must be able to detect a two gallons per hour leak rate, and tank tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0635) performed at least every two years, except the method must be able to detect a 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate;

(d) Vapor monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0660) performed at least every two years, except the method must use a tracer compound and be able to detect a 0.1 gallon per hour leak rate;

(e) Combination of inventory control (WAC 173-360A-0620) performed at least every thirty days, except the method must be able to detect a leak of at least 0.5 percent of flow-through and be performed in accordance with Department of Defense Instruction 4140.25, Air Transport Association Airport Fuel Facility Operations and Maintenance Guidance Manual, or equivalent procedures, and either:

(i) Tank tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0635) performed at least every two years, except the method must be able to detect a 0.5 gallon per hour leak rate;

(ii) Vapor monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0660) performed at least every thirty days; or

(iii) Groundwater monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0665) performed at least every thirty days; or

(f) Other release detection methods (WAC 173-360A-0675), except owners and operators must demonstrate the method can detect a leak as effectively as any of the methods allowed in (a) through (e) of this subsection and the department must approve the use of the method. In comparing methods, the department will consider the size of release that can be detected and the frequency and reliability of detection.

Owners and operators must monitor underground piping for leaks using the methods, or combination of methods, of release detection specified in this section.

(1) Piping requiring secondary containment. Underground piping requiring secondary containment under WAC 173-360A-0310 (5)(a) must be monitored for leaks as follows.

(a) Pressurized piping. Underground piping conveying regulated substances under pressure must be equipped with an automatic line leak detector (WAC 173-360A-0640) and monitored for leaks at least every thirty days using interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0655).

(b) Suction piping. Underground piping conveying regulated substances under suction, except as provided under WAC 173-360A-0600 (1)(b), must be monitored for leaks at least every thirty days using interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0655).

(2) Piping not requiring secondary containment. Except as provided for previously deferred UST systems under subsection (3) of this section, underground piping not requiring secondary containment under WAC 173-360A-0310 (5)(a) must be monitored for leaks as follows.

(a) Pressurized piping. Underground piping conveying regulated substances under pressure must be:

(i) Equipped with an automatic line leak detector (WAC 173-360A-0640); and

(ii) Monitored for leaks at least annually using line tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0650) or every thirty days using one of the following methods, or combination of methods, of release detection:

(A) Monthly automatic electronic line leak detection (WAC 173-360A-0645);

(B) Interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0655). This method may be used only if the piping is secondarily contained and meets the performance standards in WAC 173-360A-0310 (5)(c);

(C) Vapor monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0660);

(D) Groundwater monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0665);

(E) Statistical inventory reconciliation (WAC 173-360A-0670); or

(F) Other release detection methods (WAC 173-360A-0675).

(b) Suction piping. Underground piping conveying regulated substances under suction, except as provided under WAC 173-360A-0600 (1)(b), must be monitored for leaks at least every three years using line tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0650) or at least every thirty days using one of the following methods of release detection:

(i) Interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0655). This method may be used only if the piping is secondarily contained and meets the performance standards in WAC 173-360A-0310 (5)(c);

(ii) Vapor monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0660);

(iii) Groundwater monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0665);

(iv) Statistical inventory reconciliation (WAC 173-360A-0670); or

(v) Other release detection methods (WAC 173-360A-0675).

(3) Additional methods for certain previously deferred UST systems. Underground piping not requiring secondary containment under WAC 173-360A-0310 (5)(a) associated with field-constructed tanks with a capacity greater than fifty thousand gallons or airport hydrant systems must be monitored for leaks in accordance with subsection (2) of this section or using one of the following methods, or combination of methods, of release detection:

(a) Line tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0650) performed semiannually or annually, except the method must be able to detect the leak rate specified in Table 0615-1. Piping segment volumes greater than or equal to one hundred thousand gallons not capable of meeting the maximum 3.0 gallon per hour leak rate for the semiannual test may be tested at a leak rate up to 6.0 gallons per hour according to the schedule in Table 0615-2;

(b) Vapor monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0660) performed at least every two years, except the method must use a tracer compound and be able to detect a 0.1 gallon per hour leak rate;

(c) Combination of inventory control (WAC 173-360A-0620) performed at least every thirty days, except the method must be able to detect a leak of at least 0.5 percent of flow-through and be performed in accordance with Department of Defense Instruction 4140.25, Air Transport Association Airport Fuel Facility Operations and Maintenance Guidance Manual, or equivalent procedures, and either:

(i) Line tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0650) performed at least every two years, except the method must be performed in accordance with (a) of this subsection using the leak rates for the semiannual test in Table 0615-1;

(ii) Vapor monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0660) performed at least every thirty days; or

(iii) Groundwater monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0665) performed at least every thirty days; or

(d) Other release detection methods (WAC 173-360A-0675), except owners and operators must demonstrate the method can detect a leak as effectively as any of the methods allowed in (a) through (c) of this subsection and the department must approve the use of the method. In comparing methods, the department will consider the size of release that can be detected and the frequency and reliability of detection.

Owners and operators using inventory control (or another test of equivalent performance) must comply with the requirements of this section.

(1) Standards.

(a) Inventory control must be performed in a manner that is able to detect leaks of at least one percent of the monthly flow-through plus one hundred thirty gallons.

(b) Inventory control must be performed using a gauge stick or an automatic tank gauge system that is able to measure the following:

(i) Tank liquid levels over the full range of the tank's height to the nearest one-eighth of an inch; and

(ii) Water levels in the bottom of the tank to the nearest one-eighth of an inch.

(c) Dispensing meters must be calibrated to local standards or an accuracy of at least six cubic inches for every five gallons of regulated substances that is withdrawn.

(d) The fill pipe through which regulated substances are delivered into the tank must have a drop tube that extends to within one foot of the bottom of the tank.

(2) Performance. Inventory control must be performed in accordance with the requirements of this subsection. Automatic tank gauge systems must be operated in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. The following code of practice may be used, where applicable, as guidance in meeting the requirements of this subsection: American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1621, "Bulk Liquid Stock Control at Retail Outlets."

(a) Each day regulated substances are removed from or added to the tank, the following inventory volume measurements and calculations must be performed:

(i) Measure the number of gallons of regulated substances removed from the tank within the local standards for meter calibration or an accuracy of at least six cubic inches for every five gallons of regulated substances that is withdrawn;

(ii) Measure the tank liquid level to the nearest one-eighth of an inch before and after any delivery of regulated substances, convert the two measurements into gallons, calculate the difference between the two measurements, and reconcile the change in inventory volume with delivery receipts;

(iii) Measure the tank liquid level at the end of the day (ending inventory) to the nearest one-eighth of an inch and convert the measurement into gallons. The measurement taken after a delivery of regulated substances may be used to meet this requirement;

(iv) Calculate the book inventory by adding the starting inventory and the number of gallons delivered and then subtracting the number of gallons dispensed; and

(v) Calculate the daily inventory imbalance (overage or shortage) by subtracting the book inventory from the ending inventory.

(b) At least once each month, the level of any water in the tank must be measured to the nearest one-eighth of an inch.

(c) At the end of each monitoring period, calculate the monthly imbalance (overage or shortage) by adding together all of the daily imbalances.

(3) Suspected release. A release is suspected based on inventory control if:

(a) The monthly inventory imbalance is greater than one percent of the monthly flow-through plus one hundred thirty gallons; or

(b) The presence of water in the tank is unexplained.

Owners and operators using weekly manual tank gauging must comply with the requirements of this section.

(1) Standards.

(a) Weekly manual tank gauging must be performed in a manner that is able to detect any leaks greater than the applicable test standards in Table 0625-1 with a probability of detection of at least 0.95 and a probability of false alarm of no more than 0.05.

(b) Weekly manual tank gauging must be performed using a gauge stick or an automatic tank gauge system that is able to measure the following:

(i) Tank liquid levels over the full range of the tank's height to the nearest one-eighth of an inch; and

(ii) Water levels in the bottom of the tank to the nearest one-eighth of an inch.

(2) Performance. Weekly manual tank gauging must be performed in accordance with the requirements of this subsection. Automatic tank gauge systems must be operated in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

(a) Each week, the following inventory volume measurements and calculations must be performed:

(i) Select a period that is at least as long as the applicable minimum test duration specified in Table 0625-1. During this period, no liquid may be added or removed from the tank;

(ii) Take two consecutive tank liquid level measurements to the nearest one-eighth of an inch at the beginning and at the end of the selected period;

(iii) Calculate the average of the two beginning measurements and the average of the two ending measurements and convert the averages from inches to gallons;

(iv) Calculate the change in volume by subtracting the average ending measurement from the average beginning measurement; and

(v) Compare the change in volume to the applicable weekly standard in Table 0625-1.

(b) Each month, calculate the monthly change in volume by adding together the four weekly changes in volume and compare to the applicable monthly standard in Table 0625-1.

(c) At least once each month, the level of any water in the tank must be measured to the nearest one-eighth of an inch.

(3) Suspected release. A release is suspected based on weekly manual tank gauging if:

(a) Any weekly change in volume is greater than the applicable weekly standard in Table 0625-1;

(b) Any monthly change in volume is greater than the applicable monthly standard in Table 0625-1; or

(c) The presence of water in the tank is unexplained.

Owners and operators using automatic tank gauging must comply with the requirements of this section.

(1) Standards. For the purposes of this method, automatic tank gauge systems must be able to:

(a) Detect at least a 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate from any portion of the tank that routinely contains a regulated substance with a probability of detection of at least 0.95 and a probability of false alarm of no more than 0.05;

(b) Measure tank liquid levels over the full range of the tank's height; and

(c) Measure water levels in the bottom of the tank.

(2) Performance. Leak detection tests must be performed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and any conditions or limitations specified in the certification of the equipment. Tests must be performed with automatic tank gauge systems operating in one of the following modes:

(a) In-tank static test mode. In this mode, testing must be performed at least once every thirty days; or

(b) Continuous in-tank leak detection mode. In this mode, automatic tank gauge systems must operate on an uninterrupted basis or operate within a process that allows the system to gather incremental measurements to determine the leak status of the tank at least once every thirty days.

Owners and operators using tank tightness tests must comply with the requirements of this section.

(1) Standards. Tank tightness tests must be able to detect at least a 0.1 gallon per hour leak rate from any portion of the tank up to the ninety-five percent full level or up to the product level limited by overfill prevention equipment while accounting for the effects of thermal expansion or contraction of the regulated substance, vapor pockets, tank deformation, evaporation or condensation, and the location of the water table. The tests must be able to detect the specified leak rate with a probability of detection of at least 0.95 and a probability of false alarm of no more than 0.05.

(2) Performance. Tank tightness tests must be performed:

(a) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(b) In accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and any conditions or limitations specified in the certification of the method or equipment.

(3) Reporting. Tank tightness tests must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

Owners and operators must equip pressurized piping with automatic line leak detectors meeting the requirements of this section.

(1) Standards. For the purposes of this method, automatic line leak detectors must be able to:

(a) Detect a leak rate of at least three gallons per hour at ten pounds per square inch line pressure within one hour from any portion of the piping that routinely contains a regulated substance with a probability of detection of at least 0.95 and a probability of false alarm of no more than 0.05; and

(b) If a leak is detected, alert the operator by shutting off or restricting the flow of regulated substances or triggering an audible or visual alarm.

(2) Performance. Automatic line leak detectors must be operated in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and any conditions or limitations specified in the certification of the equipment.

Owners and operators using monthly automatic electronic line leak detection must comply with the requirements of this section.

(1) Standards. For the purposes of this method, automatic electronic line leak detectors must be able to detect a leak rate of at least 0.2 gallons per hour at operating pressure from any portion of the piping that routinely contains a regulated substance with a probability of detection of at least 0.95 and a probability of false alarm of no more than 0.05.

(2) Performance. Automatic electronic line leak detection tests must be performed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and any conditions or limitations specified in the certification of the equipment.

Owners and operators using line tightness tests must comply with the requirements of this section.

(1) Standards. Line tightness tests must be able to detect at least a 0.1 gallon per hour leak rate at one and one-half times the operating pressure with a probability of detection of at least 0.95 and a probability of false alarm of no more than 0.05.

(2) Performance. Line tightness tests must be performed:

(a) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(b) In accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and any conditions or limitations specified in the certification of the method or equipment.

(3) Reporting. Line tightness tests must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

Owners and operators using interstitial monitoring must comply with the requirements of this section.

(1) Standards. The interstitial monitoring system must be able to detect a leak through the inner wall of any portion of the tank or underground piping that routinely contains a regulated substance. Methods that continuously monitor the interstitial space using a vacuum, pressure, or a liquid must be able to detect a breach in both the inner and outer walls.

(2) Performance. Interstitial monitoring must be performed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and any conditions or limitations specified in the certification of the equipment.

Owners and operators using vapor monitoring (testing or monitoring for vapors within the soil gas of the excavation zone) must comply with the requirements of this section. Except as otherwise provided in WAC 173-360A-0610(3) or 173-360A-0615(3), vapor monitoring may be either passive (monitoring for presence of regulated substance) or active (monitoring for presence of tracer compound).

(1) Site conditions.

(a) The materials used as backfill must be sufficiently porous (e.g., gravel, sand, crushed rock) to readily allow diffusion of vapors from releases into the excavation area.

(b) The stored regulated substance, or a tracer compound placed in the UST system, must be sufficiently volatile (e.g., gasoline) to result in a vapor level that is detectable by the monitoring devices located in the excavation zone in the event of a release from the UST system.

(c) The measurement of vapors by the monitoring device must not be rendered inoperative by the groundwater, rainfall, or soil moisture or other known interferences so that a release could go undetected for more than thirty days.

(d) The level of background contamination in the excavation zone must not interfere with the method used to detect releases from the UST system.

(2) Site evaluations. In the UST excavation zone, the site must be evaluated to ensure compliance with the requirements in subsection (1) of this section and to establish the number and positioning of monitoring wells that will detect releases within the excavation zone from any portion of the tank or piping being monitored that routinely contains product.

(a) Performance. Site evaluations must be performed by or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter.

(b) Reporting. Site evaluations must be reported to the department within thirty days of the installation of the vapor monitoring system. The report must be submitted with the checklist required for the installation (WAC 173-360A-0300 (5)(b)). The report must be completed by the service provider. The report must identify the service provider and their certification type and number.

(3) Monitoring wells.

(a) Monitoring wells must be clearly marked and secured to avoid unauthorized access and tampering.

(b) Monitoring wells must be constructed, maintained, and decommissioned in accordance with chapter 173-160 WAC.

(4) Vapor monitors.

(a) Vapor monitors must be designed and operated to detect any significant increase in concentration above background of the regulated substance stored in the UST system, a component or components of that substance, or a tracer compound placed in the UST system.

(b) Vapor monitors must also be operated in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and any conditions or limitations specified in the certification of the equipment.

Owners and operators using groundwater monitoring (testing or monitoring for liquids on the groundwater) must comply with the requirements of this section. Except as otherwise provided in WAC 173-360A-0610(3) or 173-360A-0615(3), groundwater monitoring may be either passive (monitoring for presence of regulated substance) or active (monitoring for presence of tracer compound).

(1) Site conditions.

(a) The regulated substance stored must be immiscible in water and have a specific gravity of less than one.

(b) Groundwater must never be more than twenty feet from the ground surface and the hydraulic conductivity of the soil(s) between the UST system and the monitoring wells or devices must not be less than 0.01 cm/sec (e.g., the soil should consist of gravels, coarse to medium sands, coarse silts or other permeable materials).

(c) The slotted portion of the monitoring well casing must be designed to prevent migration of natural soils or filter pack into the well and to allow entry of regulated substance on the water table into the well under both high and low groundwater conditions.

(d) Monitoring wells must be sealed from the ground surface to the top of the filter pack.

(e) Monitoring wells or devices must intercept the excavation zone or must be as close to it as is technically feasible.

(2) Site evaluations. Within and immediately below the UST system excavation zone, the site must be evaluated to ensure compliance with the requirements in subsection (1) of this section and to establish the number and positioning of monitoring wells or devices that will detect releases from any portion of the tank or piping being monitored that routinely contains product.

(a) Performance. Site evaluations must be performed by or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter.

(b) Reporting. Site evaluations must be reported to the department within thirty days of the installation of the groundwater monitoring system. The report must be submitted with the checklist required for the installation (WAC 173-360A-0300 (5)(b)). The report must be completed by the service provider. The report must identify the service provider and their certification type and number.

(3) Monitoring wells.

(a) Monitoring wells must be clearly marked and secured to avoid unauthorized access and tampering.

(b) Monitoring wells must be constructed, maintained, and decommissioned in accordance with chapter 173-160 WAC.

(4) Monitoring devices or manual methods.

(a) The continuous monitoring devices or manual methods used must be able to detect the presence of at least one-eighth of an inch of free product on top of the groundwater in the monitoring wells.

(b) The continuous monitoring devices must be operated in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and any conditions or limitations specified in the certification of the equipment.

Owners and operators using statistical inventory reconciliation (SIR) must comply with the requirements of this section. SIR involves the application of statistical principles to inventory data similar to those described in WAC 173-360A-0620.

(1) Standards. The SIR method must:

(a) Be able to detect at least a 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate or a release of one hundred fifty gallons within a thirty-day period from any portion of the tank or underground piping that routinely contains a regulated substance with a probability of detection of at least 0.95 and a probability of false alarm of no more than 0.05;

(b) Use a threshold that does not exceed one-half the minimum detectable leak rate; and

(c) Be able to report a quantitative result with a calculated leak rate.

(2) Performance. SIR must be performed in accordance with the requirements of this subsection.

(a) Inventory control must be performed in accordance with the requirements in WAC 173-360A-0620 and the SIR vendor's instructions.

(b) SIR must be performed in accordance with any conditions or limitations specified in the certification of the SIR method.

(c) Conclusive SIR results must be obtained within the thirty-day monitoring period.

Owners and operators using other methods, or combinations of methods, of release detection must comply with the requirements of this section.

(1) Standards. Other release detection methods must:

(a) Be able to detect a 0.2 gallon per hour leak rate or a release of one hundred fifty gallons within a thirty-day period from any portion of the tank or underground piping that routinely contains a regulated substance with a probability of detection of at least 0.95 and a probability of false alarm of no more than 0.05; or

(b) Be approved by the department. To be approved, owners and operators must demonstrate the other method is able to detect a leak as effectively as any of the following methods. In comparing methods, the department will consider the size of release that can be detected and the frequency and reliability of detection. Owners and operators must comply with any additional requirements imposed by the department on its use to ensure protection of human health and the environment:

(i) Automatic tank gauging (WAC 173-360A-0630);

(ii) Tank tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0635);

(iii) Monthly automatic electronic line leak detection (WAC 173-360A-0645);

(iv) Line tightness testing (WAC 173-360A-0650);

(v) Interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0655);

(vi) Vapor monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0660);

(vii) Groundwater monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0665); or

(viii) Statistical inventory reconciliation (WAC 173-360A-0670).

(2) Performance. Other release detection methods must be performed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, any conditions or limitations specified in the certification of the method or equipment, and any additional requirements imposed by the department.

Within twenty-four hours of identifying or being notified by another person of any of the following conditions, owners and operators of UST systems must report a suspected release to the department and initiate an investigation of the suspected release in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0720:

(1) Presence of released regulated substances at the UST facility or in the surrounding area (such as the presence of free product or its constituents or vapors in soils, basements, sewer or utility lines, groundwater, or surface water);

(2) Unusual operating conditions (such as the erratic behavior of product dispensing equipment, the sudden loss of regulated substances from an UST system, the unexplained presence of water in a tank, or the presence of liquid in the interstitial space of a secondarily contained UST system), unless:

(a) The UST system component is found not to be releasing regulated substances to the environment;

(b) Any defective UST system component is immediately repaired in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490 or replaced in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0300; and

(c) For secondarily contained UST systems, any liquid in the interstitial space not used as part of the interstitial monitoring method (for example, brine) is immediately removed; or

(3) Monitoring results or alarms from a release detection method required under Part 6 of this chapter indicate that a release may have occurred, unless:

(a) The alarm was investigated and determined to be a nonrelease event (for example, alarm caused by power surge or filling the tank during release detection testing);

(b) The release detection equipment is found to be defective, and either:

(i) The defective equipment is immediately repaired or recalibrated in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490 or replaced in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0300, and additional monitoring does not confirm the initial result; or

(ii) Another applicable release detection method is used and additional monitoring does not confirm the initial result;

(c) In the case of inventory control (WAC 173-360A-0620), a second month of data does not confirm the initial result. However, owners and operators must immediately investigate all larger-than-normal or reoccurring variations in inventory control results, and report such variations if they are unaccounted for, without waiting to obtain a second month of data; or

(d) In the case of interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0655):

(i) The leak is contained in the secondary containment;

(ii) Any liquid in the interstitial space not used as part of the interstitial monitoring method (for example, brine) is immediately removed; and

(iii) Any defective UST system component is immediately repaired in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490 or replaced in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0300.

When required by the department, owners and operators of an UST system must follow the procedures in WAC 173-360A-0720 to determine if the UST system is the source of off-facility impacts. These impacts include the discovery of regulated substances (such as the presence of free product or its constituents or vapors in soils, basements, sewer or utility lines, groundwater, or surface water) that has been observed by the department or brought to its attention by another person.

Unless remedial action is initiated in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750(4), owners and operators must immediately investigate and confirm all suspected releases of regulated substances requiring reporting under WAC 173-360A-0700 or investigation under WAC 173-360A-0710 using the following steps, except as otherwise directed by the department.

(1) System test. First, all tanks and underground piping suspected of a release must be tested to determine whether a leak exists or whether a breach exists in either wall of the secondary containment. The tests must be completed within seven days of identifying a suspected release or receiving notice that the department requires investigation of a suspected release.

(a) Performance. For each tank or pipe suspected of a release, one of the following tests must be performed:

(i) A tightness test of the tank or piping in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0635 or 173-360A-0650; or

(ii) A tightness test of the secondary containment area of the tank or piping used for interstitial monitoring in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0490 (4)(c) and, for piping, a tightness test of any containment sumps used for interstitial monitoring in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0450.

(b) Next steps.

(i) If the test results do not indicate there is a release and environmental contamination is not the basis for suspecting a release, then no further investigation is required.

(ii) If the test results do not indicate there is a release but environmental contamination is the basis for suspecting a release, then a site check must be performed in accordance with subsection (2) of this section.

(iii) If the test results confirm there is a leak into the interstice but do not indicate a release, then the defective UST system components must be repaired, replaced, or closed immediately. No further investigation is required.

(iv) If the test results indicate there is a release, then:

(A) The defective UST system components must be repaired, replaced, or closed immediately; and

(B) A site check must be performed in accordance with subsection (2) of this section.

(2) Site check. Second, if required based on the results of the system test in subsection (1) of this section, a site check must be performed to determine whether regulated substances have been released from the UST system into the environment. The site check must be completed within thirty days of identifying a suspected release or receiving notice that the department requires investigation of a suspected release.

(a) Performance. Site checks must be performed in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0730.

(b) Next steps.

(i) If the results of the site check do not indicate there is a release from the UST system that may pose a threat to human health or the environment, then no further investigation of the suspected release is required.

(ii) If the results of the site check confirm there is a release from the UST system that may pose a threat to human health or the environment, then the confirmed release must be reported, investigated, and cleaned up in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750.

Owners and operators must ensure site assessments, including site checks, are performed in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(1) Applicability. Site assessments are required under this chapter to:

(a) Investigate a suspected release from an UST system, as applicable (WAC 173-360A-0720(2)). Such assessments are referred to as "site checks";

(b) Suspend financial responsibility for a temporarily closed UST system (WAC 173-360A-0800 (3)(c) and 173-360A-1010(2));

(c) Allow an UST system to be temporarily closed for more than twelve months when the tanks or piping do not meet applicable performance standards or upgrade requirements (WAC 173-360A-0800(4));

(d) Permanently close an UST system, or a tank or piping run that is part of an UST system (WAC 173-360A-0810(3)); and

(e) Undertake a change-in-service of an UST system (WAC 173-360A-0820(3)).

(2) Service provider. Site assessments must be performed or directly supervised by a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter. The service provider must be present at the UST facility when and where the site assessment is performed and any tanks or piping are removed.

(3) Sampling and analysis plans. A sampling and analysis plan must be prepared for all sampling activities that are part of a site assessment.

(a) Submission. The department may require a sampling and analysis plan be submitted to the department at least thirty days before any sampling is performed. The department may also require alternative sampling and analysis.

(b) Content. A sampling and analysis plan must include the following information at a minimum:

(i) The reasons for performing the site assessment;

(ii) The UST system or portion of the UST system around which the assessment is to be performed;

(iii) The media to be assessed, including under what circumstances groundwater will be assessed or an explanation of why groundwater does not need to be assessed;

(iv) The number and location of samples to be collected. If the plan does not include all of the soil samples specified in subsection (5)(a)(i) of this section, then the plan must explain how physical conditions prevent the collection of those samples;

(v) The methods to be used to collect and handle the samples;

(vi) The regulated substances to be analyzed for in the samples;

(vii) The methods to be used to analyze the samples for those substances;

(viii) The name of the accredited laboratory to be used to perform those analyses;

(ix) The methods to be used for quality assurance and quality control; and

(x) Any other information required by the department.

(4) Health and safety requirements. Persons performing site assessments under this chapter must comply, as applicable, with the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 651 et seq.) and the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (chapter 49.17 RCW), and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. These requirements are subject to enforcement by the designated federal and state agencies.

(5) Sampling and analysis requirements. Site assessments must be performed in accordance with the requirements of this subsection, except as otherwise directed by the department. The department may require additional sampling or analysis on a site-specific basis to confirm whether a release has occurred that may pose a threat to human health or the environment or to address any such threats.

(a) Soil assessment.

(i) Number and location of samples. Soil samples must be collected where contamination has been detected or is most likely to be present. At a minimum, the soil samples specified in Table 0730-1 must be collected unless:

(A) Physical conditions prevent the collection of any of the specified samples and an alternative sampling plan is prepared. The department must be notified in the site assessment report of any such changes and the reasons for the changes; or

(B) A release that may pose a threat to human health or the environment is confirmed without the collection of some or all of the specified samples.

(ii) Regulated substances to be analyzed. All regulated substances currently or previously stored in the UST system must be analyzed for in the soil samples.

(A) For petroleum, analyze for the substances specified for the type of product in Table 830-1 of WAC 173-340-900.

(B) For hazardous substances, analyze for the substances and any likely decomposition by-products.

(iii) Analytical procedures. The soil samples must be collected, handled, and analyzed in accordance with the requirements in WAC 173-340-830.

(iv) Evaluation of results. A release that may pose a threat to human health or the environment is confirmed if the concentration of any regulated substance analyzed in any of the soil samples exceeds the following levels:

(A) The level specified in Table 740-1 of WAC 173-340-900; or

(B) If a regulated substance is not listed in Table 740-1, a Method B unrestricted soil cleanup level established under WAC 173-340-740(3).

(b) Groundwater assessment.

(i) Applicability. Groundwater must be sampled if a release has not been confirmed by soil sampling and if:

(A) The lowest point of the UST system is located in groundwater;

(B) A release is suspected based on environmental contamination and the lowest point of the UST system is located within two feet of the seasonal high water table;

(C) Groundwater monitoring wells already exist at the UST facility where the site assessment is being performed, the wells are located in areas at the facility that would provide useful data, and the condition of the wells allows for the collection of representative samples;

(D) Physical conditions prevent collection of all or some of the soil samples required under (a)(i) of this subsection and groundwater sampling is part of an alternative sampling plan; or

(E) Groundwater sampling is otherwise required by the department.

(ii) Number and location of samples. Groundwater samples must be collected where contamination has been detected or is most likely to be present.

(iii) Regulated substances to be analyzed. All regulated substances currently or previously stored in the UST system must be analyzed for in the groundwater samples.

(A) For petroleum, analyze for the substances specified for the type of product in Table 830-1 of WAC 173-340-900.

(B) For hazardous substances, analyze for the substances and any likely decomposition by-products.

(iv) Analytical procedures. The groundwater samples must be collected, handled, and analyzed in accordance with the requirements in WAC 173-340-830.

(v) Evaluation of results. A release that may pose a threat to human health or the environment is confirmed if the concentration of any regulated substance tested in any of the groundwater samples exceeds the following levels:

(A) The levels specified in Table 720-1 of WAC 173-340-900; or

(B) If the regulated substance is not listed in Table 720-1, a Method B potable groundwater cleanup level established under WAC 173-340-720(4).

(6) Reporting and cleanup of confirmed releases. If a site assessment confirms that a release has occurred from an UST system that may pose a threat to human health or the environment, then:

(a) The service provider who performed or directly supervised the site assessment must notify:

(i) An owner or operator of the UST system immediately; and

(ii) The department within twenty-four hours. However, if an owner or operator of the system is not immediately available, the service provider must notify the department immediately.

(b) Owners and operators must report, investigate, and clean up the confirmed release in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750.

(7) Reporting results of assessment.

(a) Site assessments must be reported to the department within thirty days by submitting the applicable checklist provided by the department and a report including the information specified in subsection (8) of this section. Both the checklist and the report must be completed by the service provider.

(b) If a site assessment confirms a release that may pose a threat to human health or the environment, the site assessment report may be combined with the remedial action reports required under WAC 173-340-450, provided the combined report is submitted within thirty days of release confirmation.

(8) Content of report. At a minimum, site assessment reports must include the following information:

(a) Information about the service provider who performed or directly supervised the site assessment, including the name of the service provider, the certification type and number, and the firm with which the service provider is affiliated;

(b) Information about the UST system and the UST facility where the system is located, including:

(i) The name of the owner and operator of the system and the owner of the property where the system is located, if different;

(ii) The location of the system within the facility;

(iii) The components comprising the system;

(iv) Any previous repairs to the system;

(v) The type of regulated substances stored in the system, both currently and historically since the date of installation;

(vi) The dimensions of the excavation zone and the depth, width, and type of backfill material used within that zone, if known;

(vii) The number and location of any other currently or previously regulated systems at the facility; and

(viii) The types and locations of any groundwater monitoring wells at the facility;

(c) Information on any previous leaks or confirmed releases from the UST system, and whether the releases were cleaned up;

(d) The physical characteristics of the UST facility, including the following:

(i) The current uses of the land within and adjacent to the facility, and any known prior uses of that land;

(ii) The geology of the site, including soil types and characteristics;

(iii) The hydrology of the site, including:

(A) Surface draining characteristics;

(B) Depth to groundwater (including seasonal fluctuations);

(C) Presence of groundwater in the excavation zone, direction of groundwater flow (if relevant to any groundwater sampling plan);

(D) Proximity of the UST system to any nearby drinking water wells or surface water bodies (if known); and

(E) Potential hydraulic connections between groundwater and any nearby surface water bodies (if known); and

(iv) The location of tax parcel(s) comprising the facility, any above-ground and below-ground structures at the facility, any paved areas at the facility, and any roads or utilities on or adjacent to the facility;

(e) A summary of the sampling and analyses performed, including any changes to the plan or the sampling or analyses required under this section and the reason for those changes;

(f) All laboratory reports;

(g) The results of the site assessment, including:

(i) A table showing, for each field sample collected, the unique identifying number assigned to the sample, whether the sample was a composite sample, the laboratory results for all indicator constituents analyzed, the method used to analyze the sample, and the detection limit for that method;

(ii) Any factors that may have compromised the quality of the data or validity of the results; and

(iii) A conclusion as to whether there has been a release of regulated substances from the UST system that may pose a threat to human health or the environment;

(h) Site diagrams that include the following information at a minimum:

(i) The geographic location of the UST facility and a north arrow;

(ii) The location of the UST system within the UST facility, including the location of all tanks, piping, and dispensers, and any adjacent structures or streets;

(iii) To the extent known, the dimensions of the excavation zone and the backfill material used within that zone;

(iv) The physical characteristics of the UST facility, including the information specified in (d) of this subsection and the location of any other regulated UST systems at the facility; and

(v) The horizontal and vertical location of and unique identifying number for all samples collected for laboratory analysis, and which samples were collected from excavated soils. Diagrams must clearly differentiate between soil and groundwater samples and between investigatory and confirmation samples; and

(i) Any other information required by the department.

(9) Department determination. After receiving a site assessment report, the department will determine whether any further assessment or information is necessary. The department may require further sampling or analysis if:

(a) The assessment performed does not comply with the requirements of this section; or

(b) The department determines further assessment is necessary to confirm a suspected release, determine whether a release poses a threat to human health or the environment, or to address any such threats.

(10) Recordkeeping. Records of site assessments, including sampling and analysis plans and site assessment reports and checklists, must be maintained until six years after the UST system is permanently closed or undergoes a change-in-service.

Owners and operators must respond to spills and overfills of regulated substances in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(1) If a spill or overfill of regulated substances from an UST system results in a release that may pose a threat to human health or the environment, including in the following cases, then the release must be reported, investigated, and cleaned up in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750:

(a) A spill or overfill of petroleum results in a release to the environment of more than twenty-five gallons, a sheen on surface water, or groundwater contamination; or

(b) A spill or overfill of a hazardous substance results in a release to the environment of more than the reportable quantity specified in 40 C.F.R. Sec. 302.

(2) If a spill or overfill of regulated substances from an UST system does not result in a release or results in a release that does not pose a threat to human health or the environment, then the spill or overfill must be:

(a) Immediately contained and cleaned up as follows:

(i) Eliminate or reduce any fire, explosive, or vapor hazards resulting from the spill or overfill, and do so in a manner that minimizes the release of regulated substances into the environment;

(ii) Prevent the release or further release of regulated substances into the environment and the migration of any substances already released;

(iii) Absorb or otherwise contain any free product and properly dispose of the product and any used absorbent materials in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local requirements. Free product must not be flushed into storm drains, catch basins, dry wells, monitoring wells, or other locations with a possible connection to surrounding soils, groundwater, or surface water; and

(iv) Provide for the proper disposal or treatment of any contaminated soils in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local requirements; and

(b) Reported to the department within twenty-four hours if the cleanup required under (a) of this subsection has not been completed.

Owners and operators must immediately respond to all confirmed releases of regulated substances from UST systems that may pose a threat to human health or the environment, including those confirmed under WAC 173-360A-0720 through 173-360A-0740, in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(1) Within twenty-four hours of confirming a release, the release must be reported to the department.

(2) Within twenty-four hours of confirming a release, the UST system must be secured to prevent further delivery or deposit of regulated substances until the defective UST system components are repaired, replaced, or closed.

(3) Within thirty days of confirming a release, financial responsibility records must be submitted to the department in accordance with WAC 173-360A-1045 (2)(a).

(4) Confirmed releases must be investigated and cleaned up in accordance with chapter 173-340 WAC or as otherwise directed by the department under chapter 90.48 RCW.

Owners and operators of temporarily closed UST systems must comply with the requirements of this section.

(1) Taking UST systems out of operation. Within thirty days of temporarily closing an UST system:

(a) The department must be notified using the applicable form provided by the department; and

(b) If the UST system will be temporarily closed for more than ninety days, the following actions must be completed and reported to the department on the form:

(i) Ensure vent lines are open and functioning;

(ii) Cap or secure all other lines, pumps, entryways, and ancillary equipment;

(iii) Empty the UST system in accordance with subsection (2) of this section, or measure the amount of regulated substances remaining in the system; and

(iv) If no UST systems are in operation at the UST facility, return the facility compliance tag to the department.

(2) Emptying temporarily closed UST systems. When emptying a temporarily closed UST system:

(a) All materials must be removed from the UST system using commonly employed practices. The remaining residue in the tanks must not exceed 2.54 centimeters (one inch); and

(b) The department must be notified in writing within thirty days. The notice must include documentation that the UST system has been emptied, such as an invoice. This notice may be combined with the notice required under subsection (1) of this section.

(3) Maintaining compliance during temporary closure. Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, owners and operators must comply with all of the applicable requirements of this chapter during temporary closure, including maintenance of corrosion protection and payment of annual tank fees.

(a) Spill and overfill prevention. The following tests and inspections of spill and overfill prevention equipment may be suspended during temporary closure, regardless of whether the UST system is emptied in accordance with subsection (2) of this section:

(i) Walkthrough inspections of spill prevention equipment (WAC 173-360A-0420);

(ii) Monitoring and tightness tests of spill prevention equipment (WAC 173-360A-0460); and

(iii) Inspections of overfill prevention equipment (WAC 173-360A-0470).

(b) Release detection and containment. Release detection in Part 6 of this chapter and the following tests and inspections of release detection equipment and containment may be suspended during temporary closure if an UST system is emptied in accordance with subsection (2) of this section:

(i) Walkthrough inspections of release detection equipment, containment sumps, and hydrant pits and vaults (WAC 173-360A-0420);

(ii) Monitoring and tightness tests of containment sumps used for interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0450); and

(iii) Tests of release detection equipment (WAC 173-360A-0480).

(c) Financial responsibility. Financial responsibility in Part 10 of this chapter may be suspended during temporary closure if:

(i) The UST system is emptied in accordance with subsection (2) of this section; and

(ii) After the UST system is emptied, a site assessment around the UST system is completed and reported in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0730. Unless otherwise directed by the department, a site assessment is not required if:

(A) A release from the UST system had previously been confirmed and reported to the department; and

(B) Further remedial action is necessary to investigate or clean up the confirmed release under WAC 173-360A-0750(4).

(4) Permanent closure of substandard UST systems. An UST system must be permanently closed within twelve months of temporary closure if the tanks or piping do not meet the applicable performance standards or upgrade requirements in Part 3 of this chapter, unless:

(a) A site assessment is performed around the UST system in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0730. Unless otherwise directed by the department, a site assessment is not required if:

(i) A release from the UST system had previously been confirmed and reported to the department; and

(ii) Further remedial action is necessary to investigate or clean up the confirmed release under WAC 173-360A-0750(4); and

(b) The department provides an extension of the twelve-month period. Requests for extensions must be submitted to the department in writing after the site assessment is completed.

(5) Returning UST systems to operation.

(a) Requirements for all temporarily closed UST systems. Before returning an UST system to operation, owners and operators must comply with all of the applicable requirements of this chapter, including any suspended during temporary closure under subsection (3) of this section. If financial responsibility is suspended during temporary closure, the owner or operator must demonstrate financial responsibility in accordance with WAC 173-360A-1045 (1)(a) or (b), as applicable, before returning an UST system to operation.

(b) Additional requirements for UST systems temporarily closed more than ninety days. When an UST system is temporarily closed for more than ninety days, owners and operators must also comply with the following additional requirements.

(i) Tests and inspections. Before returning an UST system to operation, the following tests and inspections, as applicable, must be completed to ensure the UST system is operating properly and will prevent releases to the environment.

(A) Tanks and piping. If release detection is suspended during temporary closure, tightness tests of tanks and piping must be performed in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0635 and 173-360A-0650. This requirement does not apply to suction piping meeting the standards in WAC 173-360A-0600 (1)(b)(i) through (v). The department must authorize any delivery or deposit of regulated substances needed to perform the tightness tests. To obtain such authorization:

(I) A preliminary evaluation of the tanks (such as a pressure decay test) must be performed; and

(II) A request must be submitted to the department using the applicable form provided by the department. The results of the preliminary evaluation must be included with the request.

(B) Spill and overfill prevention equipment. If suspended during temporary closure, the following tests and inspections of spill and overfill prevention equipment must be performed:

(I) Walkthrough inspections of spill prevention equipment (WAC 173-360A-0420);

(II) Monitoring or tightness tests of spill prevention equipment (WAC 173-360A-0460); and

(III) Inspections of overfill prevention equipment (WAC 173-360A-0470).

(C) Release detection equipment and containment. If suspended during temporary closure, the following tests and inspections of release detection equipment and containment must be performed:

(I) Walkthrough inspections of release detection equipment, containment sumps, and hydrant pits and vaults (WAC 173-360A-0420);

(II) Monitoring or tightness tests of containment sumps used for interstitial monitoring (WAC 173-360A-0450); and

(III) Tests of release detection equipment (WAC 173-360A-0480).

(ii) Notification of return to operation. Within thirty days of returning an UST system to operation, the department must be notified using the applicable form provided by the department. The completed checklists of any UST system services required to return the UST system to operation must be included with the notification form.

(c) Reissuance of facility compliance tag. If the facility compliance tag for an UST facility is returned to the department under subsection (1)(b)(iv) of this section, the department will reissue a facility compliance tag upon receipt of the completed notification form required under (b)(ii) of this subsection.

Owners and operators must permanently close an UST system, or a tank or piping run that is part of an UST system, in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(1) Notice of intent. Owners and operators must notify the department of their intent to permanently close an UST system, or a tank or piping run that is part of an UST system, at least thirty days, but no more than ninety days, before the planned start date using the applicable form provided by the department. Owners and operators must also confirm the planned start date with the department at least three business days before starting permanent closure.

(2) Decommission. When an UST system, or a tank or piping run that is part of an UST system, undergoes permanent closure, it must be decommissioned in accordance with the requirements of this subsection.

(a) Actions. To decommission an UST system, or a tank or piping run, undergoing permanent closure, the following actions must be completed, as applicable:

(i) Tanks must be emptied and cleaned by removing all liquids and accumulated sludge;

(ii) Piping must be emptied by removing all liquids;

(iii) Tanks must be removed from the ground or closed in place by filling with an inert solid material or in another manner approved by the department;

(iv) Piping must be removed from the ground or closed in place by capping; and

(v) Any liquids or sludge removed from the tanks or piping must be designated and disposed of in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local requirements.

(b) Performance. Decommissioning must be performed:

(i) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(ii) In accordance with a code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(A) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1604, "Closure of Underground Petroleum Storage Tanks";

(B) American Petroleum Institute, Standard 2015, "Safe Entry and Cleaning of Petroleum Storage Tanks, Planning and Managing Tank Entry from Decommissioning through Recommissioning";

(C) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 2016, "Guidelines and Procedures for Entering and Cleaning Petroleum Storage Tanks";

(D) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1631, "Interior Lining and Periodic Inspection of Underground Storage Tanks";

(E) National Fire Protection Association, Standard 326, "Standard for the Safeguarding of Tanks and Containers for Entry, Cleaning, or Repair"; and

(F) National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Publication 80-106, "Criteria for a Recommended Standard: Working in Confined Spaces."

(c) Reporting. Decommissioning must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

(3) Site assessment. When an UST system, or a tank or piping run that is part of an UST system, undergoes permanent closure, a site assessment must be conducted around the system or the part of the system being closed in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0730. Unless otherwise directed by the department, a site assessment is not required if:

(a) A release from the UST system had previously been confirmed and reported to the department; and

(b) Further remedial action is necessary to investigate or clean up the confirmed release under WAC 173-360A-0750(4).

(4) Return of facility compliance tag. If there are no UST systems in operation at the UST facility, the facility compliance tag must be returned to the department with the checklist required under subsection (2)(c) of this section.

(5) Partially exempt UST systems – Notice of permanent closure. Owners and operators of a partially exempt UST system identified in WAC 173-360A-0110 (2)(a) must notify the department in writing within thirty days of the permanent closure of the UST system.

Owners and operators must undertake a change-in-service of an UST system in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(1) Notice of intent. Owners and operators must notify the department of their intent to undertake a change-in-service of an UST system at least thirty days, but no more than ninety days, before the planned start date using the applicable form provided by the department. Owners and operators must also confirm the planned start date with the department at least three business days before starting the change-in-service.

(2) Decommission. When an UST system undergoes a change-in-service, the system must be decommissioned in accordance with the requirements of this subsection.

(a) Actions. To decommission an UST system undergoing a change-in-service, the following actions must be completed, as applicable:

(i) Tanks must be emptied and cleaned by removing all liquids and accumulated sludge;

(ii) Piping must be emptied of all liquids; and

(iii) Any liquids or sludge removed from the tanks or piping must be designated and disposed of in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local requirements.

(b) Performance. Decommissioning must be performed:

(i) By or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with Part 9 of this chapter; and

(ii) In accordance with a code of practice. The following codes of practice may be used to meet this requirement:

(A) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1604, "Closure of Underground Petroleum Storage Tanks";

(B) American Petroleum Institute, Standard 2015, "Safe Entry and Cleaning of Petroleum Storage Tanks, Planning and Managing Tank Entry from Decommissioning through Recommissioning";

(C) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 2016, "Guidelines and Procedures for Entering and Cleaning Petroleum Storage Tanks";

(D) American Petroleum Institute, Recommended Practice 1631, "Interior Lining and Periodic Inspection of Underground Storage Tanks";

(E) National Fire Protection Association, Standard 326, "Standard for the Safeguarding of Tanks and Containers for Entry, Cleaning, or Repair"; and

(F) National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Publication 80-106, "Criteria for a Recommended Standard: Working in Confined Spaces."

(c) Reporting. Decommissioning must be reported to the department within thirty days using the applicable checklist provided by the department. The checklist must be completed by the service provider.

(3) Site assessment. When an UST system undergoes a change-in-service, a site assessment must be performed around the system in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0730. Unless otherwise directed by the department, a site assessment is not required if:

(a) A release from the UST system had previously been confirmed and reported to the department; and

(b) Further remedial action is necessary to investigate or clean up the confirmed release under WAC 173-360A-0750(4).

(4) Return of facility compliance tag. If there are no UST systems in operation at the UST facility, the facility compliance tag must be returned to the department with the checklist required under subsection (2)(c) of this section.

(5) Partially exempt UST systems – Notice of change-in-service. Owners and operators of a partially exempt UST system identified in WAC 173-360A-0110 (2)(a) must notify the department in writing within thirty days of the change-in-service of the UST system.

When directed by the department, owners and operators of the following UST systems must permanently close those systems (decommission and perform site assessments around the systems) in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0810 if the department determines releases from those systems may pose a current or potential threat to human health or the environment or if any additional closure activities are performed:

(1) UST systems permanently closed before December 22, 1988; and

(2) Previously deferred UST systems permanently closed before October 1, 2018.

(1) This part establishes a certification program for service providers, specifies the responsibilities of services providers, and identifies which services on UST systems must be performed by certified service providers. The certification program is designed to ensure that the services performed on UST systems are performed safely and in a manner that will protect human health and the environment.

(2) The requirements of this part apply to any services performed on an UST system requiring the use of a service provider under this chapter.

(3) The applicability of this part does not affect the applicability of any other legally applicable licensing requirements or manufacturer certification requirements.

Owners and operators must ensure that:

(1) UST system services are performed by or under the direct supervision of a service provider who is certified to perform the services in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0920 and 173-360A-0930;

(2) UST system services are performed in accordance with the requirements of this chapter and any other legally applicable requirements;

(3) UST system services are reported in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0230(3); and

(4) Records of UST system services are maintained in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0240(1).

Owners and operators must ensure that UST system services are performed by or under the direct supervision of a service provider certified in accordance with the requirements of this section. Table 0920-1 identifies the UST system services requiring the use of a service provider and the certification that a service provider must have to perform those services. There are six types of certification, which are specified in WAC 173-360A-0930. Some UST system services may be performed by more than one type of service provider.

Owners and operators must ensure that service providers performing UST system services are certified in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(1) Installation and repair. To perform or directly supervise UST system services requiring certification in installation and repair, a service provider must be certified as having sufficient education and experience by:

(a) The International Code Council (UST Installation/Retrofitting - U1);

(b) Another nationally or internationally recognized association approved by the department that provides a qualifying examination; or

(c) Passing another qualifying examination approved by the department.

(2) Tightness testing. To perform or directly supervise UST system services requiring certification in tightness testing, a service provider must be certified as having sufficient education and experience by:

(a) The International Code Council (UST Tank Tightness Testing - U3);

(b) Another nationally or internationally recognized association approved by the department that provides a qualifying examination; or

(c) Passing another qualifying examination approved by the department.

(3) Site assessment. To perform or directly supervise UST system services requiring certification in site assessment, a service provider must be certified as having sufficient education and experience by:

(a) The International Code Council (Washington State Site Assessment - U7);

(b) Another nationally or internationally recognized association approved by the department that provides a qualifying examination;

(c) Passing another qualifying examination approved by the department; or

(d) Being licensed as a professional engineer or hydrogeologist in Washington state under chapter 18.43 or 18.220 RCW and being able to demonstrate competence in site assessment by means of examination, experience, or education.

(4) Decommissioning. To perform or directly supervise UST system services requiring certification in decommissioning, a service provider must be certified as having sufficient education and experience by:

(a) The International Code Council (UST Decommissioning - U2);

(b) Another nationally or internationally recognized association approved by the department that provides a qualifying examination; or

(c) Passing another qualifying examination approved by the department.

(5) Corrosion expert. To perform or directly supervise UST system services requiring certification as a corrosion expert, as defined in WAC 173-360A-0150(13), a service provider must be certified as having sufficient education and experience by:

(a) The National Association of Corrosion Engineers;

(b) Another nationally or internationally recognized association approved by the department that provides a qualifying examination;

(c) Passing another qualifying examination approved by the department; or

(d) Being licensed as a professional engineer in Washington state under chapter 18.43 RCW and certified as cathodic protection tester under subsection (6) of this section.

(6) Cathodic protection tester. To perform or directly supervise UST system services requiring certification as a cathodic protection tester, as defined in WAC 173-360A-0150(4), a service provider must be certified as having sufficient education and experience by:

(a) The International Code Council (UST Cathodic Protection - U4);

(b) The National Association of Corrosion Engineers;

(c) The Steel Tank Institute;

(d) Another nationally or internationally recognized association approved by the department that provides a qualifying examination; or

(e) Passing another qualifying examination approved by the department.

Service providers must comply with the requirements of this section.

(1) Certification and records.

(a) Service providers must be certified to perform or directly supervise the performance of UST system services in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0920 and 173-360A-0930.

(b) Service providers must maintain proof that they are certified to perform or directly supervise the performance of UST system services under WAC 173-360A-0920 and 173-360A-0930, such as licenses or certificates, and make such proof readily available for inspection upon request by the department.

(2) Performance of services. Services providers must perform or directly supervise the performance of UST system services in accordance with the requirements of this chapter and any other legally applicable requirements, including:

(a) Chapters 18.27 RCW and 296-200A WAC, which apply to individuals who are general and specialty contractors;

(b) Chapters 18.104 RCW and 173-162 WAC, which apply to individuals who install groundwater monitoring wells;

(c) Chapters 19.28 RCW and 296-46B WAC, which apply to individuals who install and repair impressed current cathodic protection systems; and

(d) Chapters 49.17 RCW and 296-62 and 296-802 WAC, which apply to individuals engaged in activities involving hazardous chemicals and substances and who perform confined space entry during field activities, and chapter 296-155 WAC, which sets forth safety standards for construction work.

(3) Presence during services. Service providers must be present at the UST facility when and where UST system services are performed, including during the activities specified in this subsection.

(a) When installing tanks or piping, services providers must be present when:

(i) Preparing the excavation zone immediately before receiving backfill and placing the tanks or piping into the excavation zone;

(ii) Any movement of the tanks at the UST facility, including transferring the tanks from the vehicle used to transport them to the facility;

(iii) Setting the tanks or piping into the excavation zone, including placing any anchoring devices or strapping, and backfilling to the level of the tank or piping;

(iv) Placing and connecting the piping to tanks or dispensers;

(v) Pressure testing the tanks or piping during installation; and

(vi) Completing the backfill and filling of the excavation zone.

(b) When decommissioning tanks or piping runs undergoing permanent closure or a change-in-service, services providers must be present when:

(i) Purging or inerting the tanks or piping;

(ii) Excavating around the tanks or piping before removal;

(iii) Removing the tanks from the excavation zone;

(iv) Removing or capping the piping;

(v) Cleaning the tanks, including removing and disposing of any accumulated sludge; and

(vi) Undertaking any movement of the tanks at the UST facility, including transferring tanks to the vehicle used to transport them from the facility.

(c) Tanks and piping runs undergoing permanent closure may not be removed from the ground unless both the service provider decommissioning the tanks or piping runs and the service provider performing the site assessment are present.

(4) Documenting services. Service providers must document the UST system services specified in WAC 173-360A-0230(3) by completing the applicable checklists and reports required under this chapter.

(5) Reporting noncompliance. If a service provider determines that an UST system for which they are providing services is not in compliance with the requirements of this chapter, then the service provider must notify the owner or operator of the determination within twenty-four hours.

(6) Reporting confirmed releases. If a service provider confirms a release from an UST system that may pose a threat to human health or the environment, then the service provider must notify:

(a) The owner or operator of the UST system immediately; and

(b) The department within twenty-four hours. However, if an owner or operator of the UST system is not immediately available, the service provider must notify the department immediately.

(7) Enforcement and penalties. Service providers who violate the requirements of this chapter or submit false information under this chapter are subject to enforcement and civil penalties under WAC 173-360A-0270 and 173-360A-0290.

(1) This part applies to owners and operators of all UST systems except as otherwise provided in this section.

(2) This part does not apply to owners and operators of any exempt UST system described in WAC 173-360A-0110(1).

(3) State and federal government entities whose debts and liabilities are the debts and liabilities of a state or the United States are exempt from the requirements of this part.

(4) If the owner and operator of an UST system are separate persons, only one person is required to demonstrate financial responsibility; however, both parties are liable in event of noncompliance.

For the purposes of this part, the following definitions apply unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1) "Accidental release" means any sudden or nonsudden release of regulated substances arising from operating an underground storage tank that results in a need for remedial action and/or compensation for bodily injury or property damage neither expected nor intended by the tank owner or operator.

(2) "Bodily injury" has the meaning given to this term by applicable state law; however, this term does not include those liabilities which, consistent with standard insurance industry practices, are excluded from coverage in liability insurance policies for bodily injury.

(3) "Chief financial officer," in the case of local government owners and operators, means the individual with the overall authority and responsibility for the collection, disbursement, and use of funds by the local government.

(4) "Controlling interest" means direct ownership of at least 50 percent of the voting stock of another entity.

(5) "Financial reporting year" means the latest consecutive 12-month period for which any of the following reports used to support a financial test is prepared: (a) A 10-K report submitted to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission; (b) an annual report of tangible net worth submitted to Dun and Bradstreet; or (c) annual reports submitted to the Energy Information Administration or the Rural Utilities Service. "Financial reporting year" may thus comprise a fiscal or a calendar year period.

(6) "Legal defense cost" means any expense that an owner or operator or provider of financial assurance incurs in defending against claims or actions brought:

(a) By the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or a state to require remedial action or to recover the costs of remedial action;

(b) By or on behalf of a third party for bodily injury or property damage caused by an accidental release; or

(c) By any person to enforce the terms of a financial assurance mechanism.

(7) "Local government" has the meaning given to this term by applicable state law and includes Indian tribes. The term is generally intended to include:

(a) Counties, municipalities, townships, separately chartered and operated special districts (including local government public transit systems and redevelopment authorities), and independent school districts authorized as governmental bodies by state charter or constitution; and

(b) Special districts and independent school districts established by counties, municipalities, townships, and other general purpose governments to provide essential services.

(8) "Occurrence" means an accident, including continuous or repeated exposure to conditions, which results in a release from an underground storage tank. This definition is intended to assist in the understanding of this part and is not intended either to limit the meaning of "occurrence" in a way that conflicts with standard insurance usage or to prevent the use of other standard insurance terms in place of "occurrence."

(9) "Owner or operator," means, for the purposes of this part, when the owner or operator are separate parties, the party that is responsible for obtaining or has obtained financial assurances.

(10) "Petroleum marketing facilities" means all facilities at which petroleum is produced or refined and all facilities from which petroleum is sold or transferred to other petroleum marketers or to the public.

(11) "Property damage" has the meaning given to this term by applicable state law. This term does not include those liabilities which, consistent with standard insurance industry practices, are excluded from coverage in liability insurance policies for property damage. However, such exclusions for property damage do not include remedial action associated with releases from underground storage tanks which are covered by the policy.

(12) "Provider of financial assurance" means an entity that provides financial assurance to an owner or operator of an underground storage tank through one of the mechanisms listed in WAC 173-360A-1060 through 173-360A-1073, including a guarantor, insurer, risk retention group, surety, issuer of a letter of credit, or a state.

(13) "Substantial business relationship" means the extent of a business relationship necessary under applicable state law to make a guarantee contract issued incident to that relationship valid and enforceable. A guarantee contract is issued "incident to that relationship" if it arises from and depends on existing economic transactions between the guarantor and the owner or operator.

(14) "Substantial governmental relationship" means the extent of a governmental relationship necessary under applicable state law to make an added guarantee contract issued incident to that relationship valid and enforceable. A guarantee contract is issued "incident to that relationship" if it arises from a clear commonality of interest in the event of an underground storage tank release such as coterminous boundaries, overlapping constituencies, common groundwater aquifer, or other relationship other than monetary compensation that provides a motivation for the guarantor to provide a guarantee.

(15) "Tangible net worth" means the tangible assets that remain after deducting liabilities; such assets do not include intangibles such as goodwill and rights to patents or royalties. For purposes of this definition, "assets" means all existing and all probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by a particular entity as a result of past transactions.

(16) "Termination" under WAC 173-360A-1082 and 173-360A-1083 means only those changes that could result in a gap in coverage as where the insured has not obtained substitute coverage or has obtained substitute coverage with a different retroactive date than the retroactive date of the original policy.

(1) General requirement. Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, an owner or operator must continuously demonstrate financial responsibility for an UST system from the date of its installation until the date of its permanent closure or change-in-service.

(2) Suspension during temporary closure. An owner or operator is not required to demonstrate financial responsibility for an UST system while it is temporarily closed if:

(a) The UST system is emptied in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0800(2); and

(b) After the UST system is emptied, a site assessment around the UST system is completed and reported in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0730. Unless otherwise directed by the department, a site assessment is not required if:

(i) A release from the UST system had previously been confirmed and reported to the department; and

(ii) Further remedial action is necessary to investigate or clean up the confirmed release under WAC 173-360A-0750(4).

(1) Scope. Owners or operators of underground storage tanks must demonstrate financial responsibility for taking remedial action and for compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of underground storage tanks.

(2) Amount.

(a) Per occurrence amounts. Owners or operators of underground storage tanks must demonstrate financial responsibility for the types of coverage specified in subsection (1) of this section in at least the following per-occurrence amounts:

(i) For owners or operators of underground storage tanks that are located at petroleum marketing facilities, or that handle an average of more than ten thousand gallons of regulated substances per month based on annual throughput for the previous calendar year, one million dollars; and

(ii) For all other owners or operators of underground storage tanks, five hundred thousand dollars.

(b) Annual aggregate amounts. Owners or operators of underground storage tanks must demonstrate financial responsibility for the types of coverage specified in subsection (1) of this section in at least the following annual aggregate amounts:

(i) For owners or operators of one to one hundred underground storage tanks, one million dollars; and

(ii) For owners or operators of one hundred one or more underground storage tanks, two million dollars.

(c) Use of separate mechanisms for different types of coverage. Except as provided in (d) of this subsection, if the owner or operator uses separate mechanisms or separate combinations of mechanisms to demonstrate financial responsibility for the following, then the amount of assurance provided by each mechanism or combination of mechanisms must be in the full amount specified in (a) and (b) of this subsection:

(i) Taking remedial action;

(ii) Compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by sudden accidental releases; or

(iii) Compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by nonsudden accidental releases.

(d) Use of separate mechanisms for different tanks. If an owner or operator uses separate mechanisms or separate combinations of mechanisms to demonstrate financial responsibility for different underground storage tanks, then the annual aggregate amount required must be based on the number of tanks covered by each such separate mechanism or combination of mechanisms.

(e) Review of aggregate amounts. Owners or operators must review the amount of aggregate assurance provided whenever additional underground storage tanks are acquired or installed. If the number of underground storage tanks for which assurance must be provided exceeds one hundred, the owner or operator must demonstrate financial responsibility in the amount of at least two million dollars of annual aggregate assurance by the anniversary of the date on which the mechanism demonstrating financial responsibility became effective. If assurance is being demonstrated by a combination of mechanisms, the owner or operator must demonstrate financial responsibility in the amount of at least two million dollars of annual aggregate assurance by the first-occurring effective date anniversary of any one of the mechanisms combined (other than a financial test or guarantee) to provide assurance.

(f) Amounts exclude legal costs. The amounts of assurance required under this section exclude legal defense costs.

(g) For the purposes of (b) and (e) of this subsection only, "an underground storage tank" means a single containment unit and does not mean combinations of single containment units.

(3) Liability of owner or operator. The scope and amount of required financial responsibility specified in subsections (1) and (2) of this section do not in any way limit the liability of the owner or operator.

(1) For all owners or operators. Subject to the limitation of subsection (3) of this section, an owner or operator, including a local government owner or operator, may use any one or combination of the mechanisms listed in WAC 173-360A-1060 through 173-360A-1067 to demonstrate financial responsibility under this part for one or more underground storage tanks.

(2) For only local governments owners or operators. Subject to the limitation of subsection (3) of this section, a local government owner or operator may also use any one or combination of the mechanisms listed in WAC 173-360A-1070 through 173-360A-1073 to demonstrate financial responsibility under this part for one or more underground storage tanks.

(3) Limitation on combining self-insurance and guarantee. An owner or operator may use self-insurance in combination with a guarantee only if, for the purpose of meeting the requirements of the financial test under this rule, the financial statements of the owner or operator are not consolidated with the financial statements of the guarantor.

(1) Authority. An owner or operator may substitute any alternate financial assurance mechanisms as specified in this part, provided that at all times the owner or operator maintains an effective financial assurance mechanism or combination of mechanisms that satisfies the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015.

(2) Cancellation. After obtaining alternate financial assurance as specified in this part, an owner or operator may cancel a financial assurance mechanism by providing notice to the provider of financial assurance in accordance with requirements for cancellation set forth for the specific mechanism in WAC 173-360A-1060 through 173-360A-1073.

(1) Authority. Except as otherwise provided, a provider of financial assurance may cancel or fail to renew an assurance mechanism by sending a notice of termination by certified mail to the owner or operator.

(2) Date of termination.

(a) Guarantee, surety bond, or letter of credit. Termination of a local government guarantee, a guarantee, a surety bond, or a letter of credit may not occur until 120 days after the date on which the owner or operator receives the notice of termination, as evidenced by the return receipt.

(b) Insurance, risk retention group coverage, or state-funded assurance. Termination of insurance or risk retention group coverage, except for nonpayment or misrepresentation by the insured, or state-funded assurance may not occur until 60 days after the date on which the owner or operator receives the notice of termination, as evidenced by the return receipt. Termination for nonpayment of premium or misrepresentation by the insured may not occur until a minimum of 10 days after the date on which the owner or operator receives the notice of termination, as evidenced by the return receipt.

(3) Obtaining alternate coverage.

(a) If provider incapacitated. If a provider of financial assurance cancels or fails to renew for reasons of incapacity of the provider, then the owner or operator must obtain alternate coverage as specified in WAC 173-360A-1035.

(b) If provider not incapacitated. If a provider of financial assurance cancels or fails to renew for reasons other than incapacity of the provider, then the owner or operator must obtain alternate coverage as specified in this section within 60 days after receipt of the notice of termination. If the owner or operator fails to obtain alternate coverage within 60 days after receipt of the notice of termination, then by that date the owner or operator must notify the department of the failure and submit:

(i) The name and address of the provider of financial assurance;

(ii) The effective date of termination; and

(iii) The evidence of the financial assurance mechanism subject to the termination maintained in accordance with WAC 173-360A-1040(2).

(1) Notifying department upon bankruptcy of owners or operators. Within 10 days after commencement of a voluntary or involuntary proceeding under Title 11 (Bankruptcy), U.S. Code, naming an owner or operator as debtor, the owner or operator must notify the department by certified mail of such commencement and submit the evidence of financial responsibility specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2).

(2) Notifying owners or operators upon bankruptcy of guarantor. Within 10 days after commencement of a voluntary or involuntary proceeding under Title 11 (Bankruptcy), U.S. Code, naming a guarantor providing financial assurance as debtor, such guarantor must notify the owner or operator by certified mail of such commencement as required under the terms of the guarantee specified in WAC 173-360A-1061.

(3) Notifying department upon bankruptcy of local government owner or operator. Within 10 days after commencement of a voluntary or involuntary proceeding under Title 11 (Bankruptcy), U.S. Code, naming a local government owner or operator as debtor, the local government owner or operator must notify the department by certified mail of such commencement and submit the evidence of financial responsibility specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2).

(4) Notifying owners or operators upon bankruptcy of guarantor providing local government assurance. Within 10 days after commencement of a voluntary or involuntary proceeding under Title 11 (Bankruptcy), U.S. Code, naming a guarantor providing a local government financial assurance as debtor, such guarantor must notify the local government owner or operator by certified mail of such commencement as required under the terms of the guarantee specified in WAC 173-360A-1072.

(5) Obtaining alternate financial assurance upon bankruptcy or incapacity of provider. An owner or operator who obtains financial assurance by a mechanism other than the financial test of self-insurance will be deemed to be without the required financial assurance in the event of a bankruptcy or incapacity of its provider of financial assurance, or a suspension or revocation of the authority of the provider of financial assurance to issue a guarantee, insurance policy, risk retention group coverage policy, surety bond, or letter of credit. The owner or operator must obtain alternate financial assurance as specified in this part within 30 days after receiving notice of such an event. If the owner or operator fails to obtain alternate coverage within 30 days after such notification, then by that date the owner or operator must notify the department of the failure and submit the evidence of financial responsibility specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2).

(6) Obtaining alternate financial assurance upon incapacity of state fund or other state assurance. Within 30 days after receipt of notification that a state fund or other state assurance has become incapable of paying for assured remedial action or third-party compensation costs, the owner or operator must obtain alternate financial assurance.

(1) Requirement to maintain evidence. Owners or operators must maintain evidence of all financial assurance mechanisms used to demonstrate financial responsibility under this part for an underground storage tank until released from the requirements of this part under WAC 173-360A-1010. Owners or operators must make records readily available upon request by the department.

(2) Types of evidence required. An owner or operator must maintain the following types of evidence of financial responsibility:

(a) Certification of financial responsibility. An owner or operator using an assurance mechanism specified in WAC 173-360A-1060 through 173-360A-1073 must maintain an updated copy of a certification of financial responsibility worded as set forth in WAC 173-360A-1096, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with the relevant information and the brackets deleted. The owner or operator must update this certification whenever the financial assurance mechanism(s) used to demonstrate financial responsibility change(s).

(b) Assurance mechanism instrument. An owner or operator using an assurance mechanism specified in WAC 173-360A-1060 through 173-360A-1065 or 173-360A-1070 through 173-360A-1073 must maintain a copy of the instrument worded as specified.

(c) An owner or operator using a financial test or guarantee must maintain a copy of the chief financial officer's letter based on year-end financial statements for the most recent completed financial reporting year. Such evidence must be on file no later than 120 days after the close of the financial reporting year.

(d) An owner or operator using an insurance policy or risk retention group coverage must maintain a copy of the signed insurance policy or risk retention group coverage policy, with the endorsement or certificate of insurance and any amendments to the agreements.

(e) An owner or operator using a guarantee, surety bond, or letter of credit must maintain a copy of the signed standby trust fund agreement and copies of any amendments to the agreement.

(f) An owner or operator covered by a state fund or other state assurance must maintain on file a copy of any evidence of coverage supplied by or required by the state under WAC 173-360A-1067.

(g) A local government owner or operator using the local government bond rating test under WAC 173-360A-1070 must maintain a copy of its bond rating published within the last 12 months by Moody's or Standard & Poor's.

(h) A local government owner or operator using the local government financial test under WAC 173-360A-1071 or the local government guarantee under WAC 173-360A-1072 supported by the local government financial test must maintain a copy of the chief financial officer's letter based on year-end financial statements for the most recent completed financial reporting year. Such evidence must be on file no later than 120 days after the close of the financial reporting year.

(i) A local government owner or operator using the local government guarantee under WAC 173-360A-1072 supported by the local government bond rating test under WAC 173-360A-1070 must maintain a copy of the guarantor's bond rating published within the last 12 months by Moody's or Standard & Poor's.

(j) A local government owner or operator using the local government guarantee under WAC 173-360A-1072 (4)(a) must maintain a copy of the signed standby trust fund agreement and copies of any amendments to the agreement.

(k) An owner or operator using a local government fund under WAC 173-360A-1073 must maintain the following documents:

(i) A copy of the state constitutional provision or local government statute, charter, ordinance, or order dedicating the fund; and

(ii) Year-end financial statements for the most recent completed financial reporting year showing the amount in the fund. If the fund is established under WAC 173-360A-1073 (3)(c) using incremental funding backed by bonding authority, then the financial statements must show the previous year's balance, the amount of funding during the year, and the closing balance in the fund.

(l) An owner or operator using a local government fund established under WAC 173-360A-1073 (3)(c) using incremental funding backed by bonding authority must also maintain documentation of the required bonding authority, including either:

(i) The results of a voter referendum under WAC 173-360A-1073 (3)(c)(i); or

(ii) Attestation by the state attorney general as specified under WAC 173-360A-1073 (3)(c)(ii).

(1) Demonstration of financial responsibility.

(a) Upon application for a license. When applying for a license for an underground storage tank, the owner or operator must submit to the department of revenue a copy of the following to demonstrate financial responsibility for the underground storage tank:

(i) Certification of financial responsibility (WAC 173-360A-1096); and

(ii) If the financial assurance mechanisms used include insurance or risk retention group coverage, then the endorsement (WAC 173-360A-1082) or certificate of insurance (WAC 173-360A-1083).

(b) Upon renewal or substitution of financial assurances. Upon renewal or substitution of, or any other changes to, the financial assurance mechanism(s) used to demonstrate financial responsibility, the owner or operator must immediately submit to the department of revenue an updated copy of the following:

(i) Certification of financial responsibility (WAC 173-360A-1096); and

(ii) If the financial assurance mechanism(s) used include insurance or risk retention group coverage, then the endorsement (WAC 173-360A-1082) or certificate of insurance (WAC 173-360A-1083).

(c) Upon cancellation or termination of financial assurances. Upon receipt of a notice of cancellation or termination of any financial assurance mechanism used to demonstrate financial responsibility, the owner or operator must immediately submit a copy of the notice to the department of revenue.

(2) Submission of financial responsibility records.

(a) Upon confirmed release. An owner or operator must submit to the department the financial responsibility records specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2) within thirty days after the owner or operator confirms a release from an underground storage tank required to be reported under WAC 173-360A-0750.

(b) Upon bankruptcy of owner or operator. An owner or operator must submit to the department the financial responsibility records specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2) within ten days after commencement of a voluntary or involuntary proceeding under Title 11 (Bankruptcy), U.S. Code, naming an owner or operator as debtor.

(c) Upon failure of owner or operator to obtain alternate coverage.

(i) Upon failure to pass financial test. If a self-insured owner or operator fails to meet the requirements of the applicable financial test in WAC 173-360A-1060 and fails to obtain alternate coverage by the specified date, then by that date the owner or operator must notify the department of the failure and submit the financial responsibility records specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2).

(ii) Upon failure to pass local government bond rating or financial test. If a self-insured local government owner or operator fails to meet the bond rating test requirements in WAC 173-360A-1070 or the financial test requirements in WAC 173-360A-1071 and fails to obtain alternate coverage by the specified date, then by that date the local government owner or operator must notify the department of the failure and submit the financial responsibility records specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2).

(iii) Upon incapacity of provider. If an owner or operator fails to obtain alternate coverage within thirty days after receiving notice of the following, then by that date the owner or operator must notify the department of the failure and submit the financial responsibility records specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2):

(A) Commencement of a voluntary or involuntary proceeding under Title 11 (Bankruptcy), U.S. Code, naming a provider of financial assurance as a debtor;

(B) Suspension or revocation of the authority of a provider of financial assurance to issue a financial assurance mechanism;

(C) Failure of a guarantor to meet the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1061;

(D) Failure of a local government guarantor to meet the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1072; or

(E) Other incapacity of a provider of financial assurance.

(iv) Upon other termination by provider. If a provider cancels or fails to renew a financial assurance mechanism for reasons other than incapacity and the owner or operator fails to obtain alternate coverage within sixty days after receiving notice of termination by the provider, then by that date the owner or operator must notify the department of the failure and submit the information required in WAC 173-360A-1030 (3)(b).

(3) Requests by department. The department may require an owner or operator to submit the financial responsibility records specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2) or other information relevant to compliance with this part at any time.

(1) Funding of trust. Except as specified in WAC 173-360A-1055, the department must require the guarantor, surety, or institution issuing a letter of credit to place the amount of funds stipulated by the department, up to the limit of funds provided by the financial assurance mechanism, into the standby trust if:

(a) The following conditions are satisfied:

(i) The owner or operator fails to establish alternate financial assurance within sixty days after receiving notice of cancellation of the guarantee, surety bond, letter of credit, or, as applicable, other financial assurance mechanism; and

(ii) The department determines or suspects that a release from an underground storage tank covered by the mechanism has occurred and so notifies the owner or operator or the owner or operator has notified the department pursuant to Part 7 of this chapter of a release from an underground storage tank covered by the mechanism; or

(b) The conditions of subsection (2)(a), (b)(i) or (ii) of this section are satisfied.

(2) Drawing on trust. The department may draw on a standby trust fund when:

(a) The department makes a final determination that a release has occurred and immediate or long-term remedial action for the release is needed, and the owner or operator, after appropriate notice and opportunity to comply, has not conducted remedial action as required under WAC 173-360A-0750; or

(b) The department has received either:

(i) Certification from the owner or operator and the third-party liability claimant(s) and from attorneys representing the owner or operator and the third-party liability claimant(s) that a third-party liability claim should be paid. The certification must be worded as set forth in WAC 173-360A-1097, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with the relevant information and the brackets deleted; or

(ii) A valid final court order establishing a judgment against the owner or operator for bodily injury or property damage caused by an accidental release from an underground storage tank covered by financial assurance under this part and the department determines that the owner or operator has not satisfied the judgment.

(3) Priority of payments. If the department determines that the amount of remedial action costs and third-party liability claims eligible for payment under subsection (2) of this section may exceed the balance of the standby trust fund and the obligation of the provider of financial assurance, the first priority for payment must be remedial action costs necessary to protect human health and the environment. The department must pay third-party liability claims in the order in which the department receives certifications under subsection (2)(b)(i) of this section and valid court orders under subsection (2)(b)(ii) of this section.

(4) Replenishment of mechanisms.

(a) General. If at any time after a standby trust is funded upon the instruction of the department with funds drawn from a guarantee, local government guarantee with standby trust, letter of credit, or surety bond, and the amount in the standby trust is reduced below the full amount of coverage required, then the owner or operator must by the anniversary date of the financial mechanism from which the funds were drawn:

(i) Replenish the value of financial assurance to equal the full amount of coverage required under WAC 173-360A-1015(2); or

(ii) Acquire another financial assurance mechanism for the amount by which funds in the standby trust have been reduced.

(b) Combination of mechanisms. If a combination of mechanisms was used to provide the assurance funds which were drawn upon, then the owner or operator must take the actions required under (a)(i) or (ii) of this subsection by the earliest anniversary date among the mechanisms.

(5) Refunding of trust balance to providers. The department will instruct the trustee to refund the balance of the standby trust fund to the provider of financial assurance if the department determines that no additional remedial action costs or third-party liability claims will occur as a result of a release covered by the financial assurance mechanism for which the standby trust fund was established.

A governmental entity acting as guarantor without a standby trust under WAC 173-360A-1072 (4)(c) or (d) must make payments as directed by the department under the circumstances described in WAC 173-360A-1050 (1) through (3).

(1) Applicability of mechanism. An owner or operator, and/or guarantor, may satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 by passing a financial test as specified in this section.

(2) Financial test requirements. To pass the financial test of self-insurance, the owner or operator, and/or guarantor must meet the criteria of (a) or (b) of this subsection based on year-end financial statements for the latest completed fiscal year.

(a) First test.

(i) The owner or operator, and/or guarantor, must have a tangible net worth of at least ten times:

(A) The total of the applicable aggregate amount required by WAC 173-360A-1015, based on the number of underground storage tanks for which a financial test is used to demonstrate financial responsibility to the department under this section;

(B) The sum of the corrective action cost estimates, the current closure and post-closure care cost estimates, and amount of liability coverage for which a financial test is used to demonstrate financial responsibility to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under 40 C.F.R. Parts 264.101, 264.143, 264.145, 265.143, 265.145, 264.147, and 265.147 or to a state agency under a state program authorized by EPA under Part 271; and

(C) The sum of current plugging and abandonment cost estimates for which a financial test is used to demonstrate financial responsibility to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under 40 C.F.R. Part 144.63 or to a state agency under a state program authorized by EPA under 40 C.F.R. Part 145.

(ii) The owner or operator, and/or guarantor, must have a tangible net worth of at least ten million dollars.

(iii) The owner or operator, and/or guarantor, must have a letter signed by the chief financial officer as specified in subsection (3) of this section and as set forth in WAC 173-360A-1080.

(iv) The owner or operator, and/or guarantor, must either:

(A) File financial statements annually with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the Energy Information Administration, or the Rural Utilities Service; or

(B) Report annually the firm's tangible net worth to Dun and Bradstreet, and Dun and Bradstreet must have assigned the firm a financial strength rating of 4A or 5A.

(v) The firm's year-end financial statements, if independently audited, cannot include an adverse auditor's opinion, a disclaimer of opinion, or a "going concern" qualification.

(b) Second test.

(i) The owner or operator, and/or guarantor must meet the financial test requirements of 40 C.F.R. 264.147(f)(1), substituting the appropriate amounts specified in WAC 173-360A-1015 (2)(b)(i) and (ii) for the "amount of liability coverage" each time specified in that section.

(ii) The fiscal year-end financial statements of the owner or operator, and/or guarantor, must be examined by an independent certified public accountant and be accompanied by the accountant's report of the examination.

(iii) The firm's year-end financial statements cannot include an adverse auditor's opinion, a disclaimer of opinion, or a "going concern" qualification.

(iv) The owner or operator, and/or guarantor, must have a letter signed by the chief financial officer, worded as specified in subsection (3) of this section and as set forth in WAC 173-360A-1080.

(v) If the financial statements of the owner or operator, and/or guarantor, are not submitted annually to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the Energy Information Administration or the Rural Utilities Service, the owner or operator, and/or guarantor, must obtain a special report by an independent certified public accountant stating that:

(A) He or she has compared the data that the letter from the chief financial officer specifies as having been derived from the latest year-end financial statements of the owner or operator, and/or guarantor, with the amounts in such financial statements; and

(B) In connection with that comparison, no matters came to his attention which caused him to believe that the specified data should be adjusted.

(3) Letter from chief financial officer. To demonstrate that it meets the financial test under subsection (2)(a) or (b) of this section, the chief financial officer of the owner or operator, and/or guarantor, must sign, within one hundred twenty days of the close of each financial reporting year, as defined by the twelve-month period for which financial statements used to support the financial test are prepared, a letter worded exactly as set forth in WAC 173-360A-1080, except that the instructions in brackets are to be replaced by the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(4) Obtaining alternate coverage if fail test. If an owner or operator using the test to provide financial assurance finds that he or she no longer meets the requirements of the financial test based on the year-end financial statements, the owner or operator must obtain alternate coverage within one hundred fifty days of the end of the year for which financial statements have been prepared.

(5) Requests by department and findings of failure. The department may require reports of financial condition at any time from the owner or operator, and/or guarantor. If the department finds, on the basis of such reports or other information, that the owner or operator, and/or guarantor, no longer meets the financial test requirements of subsections (2)(a) or (b) and (3) of this section, the owner or operator must obtain alternate coverage within thirty days after notification of such a finding.

(6) Notification of department if fail to obtain alternate coverage. If the owner or operator fails to obtain alternate coverage within one hundred fifty days of finding that he or she no longer meets the requirements of the financial test based on the year-end financial statements, or within thirty days of notification by the department that he or she no longer meets the requirements of the financial test, then by that date the owner or operator must notify the department of such failure and submit the evidence of financial responsibility specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2).

(1) Applicability of mechanism. An owner or operator may satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 by obtaining a guarantee that conforms to the requirements of this section.

(2) Eligibility of guarantor. The guarantor must be:

(a) A firm that:

(i) Possesses a controlling interest in the owner or operator;

(ii) Possesses a controlling interest in a firm described under (a)(i) of this subsection; or

(iii) Is controlled through stock ownership by a common parent firm that possesses a controlling interest in the owner or operator; or

(b) A firm engaged in a substantial business relationship with the owner or operator and issuing the guarantee as an act incident to that business relationship.

(3) Financial test of guarantor. Within one hundred twenty days of the close of each financial reporting year the guarantor must demonstrate that it meets the financial test criteria of WAC 173-360A-1060 based on year-end financial statements for the latest completed financial reporting year by completing the letter from the chief financial officer described in WAC 173-360A-1060(3) and must deliver the letter to the owner or operator.

(4) Responsibilities upon failure of test. If the guarantor fails to meet the requirements of the financial test at the end of any financial reporting year, within one hundred twenty days of the end of that financial reporting year the guarantor must send by certified mail, before cancellation or nonrenewal of the guarantee, notice to the owner or operator. If the department notifies the guarantor that the guarantor no longer meets the requirements of the financial test of WAC 173-360A-1060 (2)(a) or (b) and (3), the guarantor must notify the owner or operator within ten days of receiving such notification from the department. In both cases, the guarantee will terminate no less than one hundred twenty days after the date the owner or operator receives the notification, as evidenced by the return receipt. The owner or operator must obtain alternate coverage as specified in WAC 173-360A-1035(5).

(5) Content of guarantee. The guarantee must be worded as set forth is WAC 173-360A-1081, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(6) Standby trust. An owner or operator who uses a guarantee to satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 must establish a standby trust fund when the guarantee is obtained. Under the terms of the guarantee, all amounts paid by the guarantor under the guarantee will be deposited directly into the standby trust fund in accordance with instructions from the department under WAC 173-360A-1050. This standby trust fund must meet the requirements specified in WAC 173-360A-1066.

(1) Applicability of mechanism. An owner or operator may satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 by obtaining liability insurance that conforms to the requirements of this section from a qualified insurer or risk retention group. Such insurance may be in the form of a separate insurance policy or an endorsement to an existing insurance policy.

(2) Eligibility of provider. Each insurance policy must be issued by an insurer or a risk retention group that, at a minimum, is licensed to transact the business of insurance or eligible to provide insurance as an excess or surplus lines insurer in one or more states.

(3) Content of policy. Each insurance policy must be amended by an endorsement worded as specified in WAC 173-360A-1082 or evidenced by a certificate of insurance worded as specified in WAC 173-360A-1083, except that instructions in brackets must be replaced with the relevant information and the brackets deleted. Each insurance policy must cover a claim arising from an accidental release arising from the operation of underground storage tanks, regardless of how the release was discovered or identified. No endorsement may amend an insurance policy to restrict coverage of such a claim based on the how the release was discovered or identified.

(1) Applicability of mechanism. An owner or operator may satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 by obtaining a surety bond that conforms to the requirements of this section.

(2) Eligibility of surety. The surety company issuing the bond must be among those listed as acceptable sureties on federal bonds in the latest Circular 570 of the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

(3) Content of surety bond. The surety bond must be worded as set forth in WAC 173-360A-1084, except that instructions in brackets must be replaced with the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(4) Liability of surety. Under the terms of the bond, the surety will become liable on the bond obligation when the owner or operator fails to perform as guaranteed by the bond. In all cases, the surety's liability is limited to the per-occurrence and annual aggregate penal sums.

(5) Standby trust. The owner or operator who uses a surety bond to satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 must establish a standby trust fund when the surety bond is acquired. Under the terms of the bond, all amounts paid by the surety under the bond will be deposited directly into the standby trust fund in accordance with instructions from the department under WAC 173-360A-1050. This standby trust fund must meet the requirements specified in WAC 173-360A-1066.

(1) Applicability of mechanism. An owner or operator may satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 by obtaining an irrevocable standby letter of credit that conforms to the requirements of this section.

(2) Eligibility of issuing institution. The issuing institution must be an entity that has the authority to issue letters of credit in Washington state and whose letter-of-credit operations are regulated and examined by a federal or state agency.

(3) Content of letter of credit. The letter of credit must be worded as set forth in WAC 173-360A-1085, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(4) Term of letter of credit. The letter of credit must be irrevocable with a term specified by the issuing institution. The letter of credit must provide that credit be automatically renewed for the same term as the original term, unless, at least one hundred twenty days before the current expiration date, the issuing institution notifies the owner or operator by certified mail of its decision not to renew the letter of credit. Under the terms of the letter of credit, the one hundred twenty days will begin on the date when the owner or operator receives the notice, as evidenced by the return receipt.

(5) Standby trust. An owner or operator who uses a letter of credit to satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 must also establish a standby trust fund when the letter of credit is acquired. Under the terms of the letter of credit, all amounts paid pursuant to a draft by the department will be deposited by the issuing institution directly into the standby trust fund in accordance with instructions from the department under WAC 173-360A-1050. This standby trust fund must meet the requirements specified in WAC 173-360A-1066.

(1) Applicability of mechanism. An owner or operator may satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 by establishing a trust fund that conforms to the requirements of this section.

(2) Eligibility of trustee. The trustee must be an entity that has the authority to act as a trustee and whose trust operations are regulated and examined by a federal agency or an agency of the state in which the fund is established.

(3) Content of trust agreement. The wording of the trust agreement must be identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1086, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(4) Certification of acknowledgment. The trust agreement must be accompanied by a formal certification of acknowledgment worded as specified in WAC 173-360A-1087, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(5) Amount of required funding. The trust fund, when established, must be funded for the full required amount of coverage, or funded for part of the required amount of coverage and used in combination with other mechanism(s) that provide the remaining required coverage.

(6) Release of excess funds.

(a) Requests.

(i) If the value of the trust fund is greater than the required amount of coverage, the owner or operator may submit a written request to the department for release of the excess.

(ii) If other financial assurance as specified in this part is substituted for all or part of the trust fund, the owner or operator may submit a written request to the department for release of the excess.

(b) Response by department. Within sixty days after receiving a request from the owner or operator for release of funds as specified in (a)(i) or (ii) of this subsection, the department will instruct the trustee to release to the owner or operator such funds as the department specifies in writing.

(1) Applicability of mechanism. An owner or operator using any one of the mechanisms authorized by WAC 173-360A-1061, 173-360A-1063, or 173-360A-1064 must establish a standby trust fund when the mechanism is acquired.

(2) Eligibility of trustee. The trustee of the standby trust fund must be an entity that has the authority to act as a trustee and whose trust operations are regulated and examined by a federal agency or an agency of the state in which the fund is established.

(3) Content of trust agreement. The standby trust agreement or trust agreement must be worded as set forth in WAC 173-360A-1086, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(4) Certification of acknowledgment. The standby trust agreement or trust agreement must be accompanied by a formal certification of acknowledgment worded as specified in WAC 173-360A-1087, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(5) Use of trust as depository for multiple assurances. An owner or operator may establish one trust fund as the depository mechanism for all funds assured in compliance with this rule.

(1) Applicability of mechanism. An owner or operator may satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 by obtaining coverage from a state fund or other state assurance program.

(2) Evidence of coverage. The state must provide to each owner or operator for which it is assuming financial responsibility a letter or certificate describing the nature of the state's assumption of responsibility. The letter or certificate from the state must include, or have attached to it, the following information: The facility's name and address and the amount of funds for remedial action and/or for compensating third parties that is assured by the state. The owner or operator must maintain this letter or certificate on file as proof of financial responsibility in accordance with WAC 173-360A-1040 (2)(f).

(1) Applicability of mechanism. A local government owner or operator and/or local government serving as a guarantor may satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 by meeting the bond rating test requirements in subsection (2) of this section.

(2) Bond rating test requirements.

(a) General purpose local governments. To pass the bond rating test, a general purpose local government owner or operator and/or local government must have a currently outstanding issue or issues of general obligation bonds of one million dollars or more, excluding refunded obligations, with a Moody's rating of Aaa, Aa, A, or Baa, or a Standard & Poor's rating of AAA, AA, A, or BBB. Where a local government has multiple outstanding issues, or where a local government's bonds are rated by both Moody's and Standard & Poor's, the lowest rating must be used to determine eligibility. Bonds that are backed by credit enhancement other than municipal bond insurance may not be considered in determining the amount of applicable bonds outstanding.

(b) Nongeneral purpose local governments. To pass the bond rating test, a local government owner or operator or local government that is not a general-purpose local government and does not have the legal authority to issue general obligation bonds must have a currently outstanding issue or issues of revenue bonds of one million dollars or more, excluding refunded issues, and by also having a Moody's rating of Aaa, Aa, A, or Baa, or a Standard & Poor's rating of AAA, AA, A, or BBB as the lowest rating for any rated revenue bond issued by the local government. Where bonds are rated by both Moody's and Standard & Poor's, the lower rating for each bond must be used to determine eligibility. Bonds that are backed by credit enhancement may not be considered in determining the amount of applicable bonds outstanding.

(3) Letter from chief financial officer.

(a) General purpose local governments. To demonstrate that it meets the local government bond rating test, the chief financial officer of a general purpose local government owner or operator and/or guarantor must sign a letter worded exactly as specified in WAC 173-360A-1088, except that the instructions in brackets are to be replaced by the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(b) Nongeneral purpose local governments. To demonstrate that it meets the local government bond rating test, the chief financial officer of local government owner or operator and/or guarantor other than a general purpose government must sign a letter worded exactly as specified in WAC 173-360A-1089, except that the instructions in brackets are to be replaced by the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(4) Maintaining records of bond rating. The local government owner or operator and/or guarantor must maintain a copy of its bond rating published within the last twelve months by Moody's or Standard & Poor's.

(5) Obtaining alternate coverage if fail test. If a local government owner or operator using the bond rating test to provide financial assurance finds that it no longer meets the bond rating test requirements, then the local government owner or operator must obtain alternate coverage within one hundred fifty days of the change in status.

(6) Requests by department and findings of failure. The department may require reports of financial condition at any time from the local government owner or operator, and/or local government guarantor. If the department finds, on the basis of such reports or other information, that the local government owner or operator, and/or guarantor, no longer meets the local government bond rating test requirements of this section, the local government owner or operator must obtain alternate coverage within thirty days after notification of such a finding.

(7) Notification of department if fail to obtain alternate coverage. If a local government owner or operator fails to obtain alternate coverage within one hundred fifty days of finding that it no longer meets the requirements of the bond rating test or within thirty days of notification by the department that it no longer meets the requirements of the bond rating test, then by that date the owner or operator must notify the department of such failure and submit the evidence of financial responsibility specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2).

(1) Applicability of mechanism. A local government owner or operator may satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 by passing the financial test specified in this section.

(2) Eligibility requirements. To be eligible to use the financial test, the local government owner or operator must have the ability and authority to assess and levy taxes or to freely establish fees and charges.

(3) Financial test requirements. To pass the local government financial test, the owner or operator must meet the following criteria based on year-end financial statements for the latest completed fiscal year:

(a) The local government's year-end financial statements, if independently audited, cannot include an adverse auditor's opinion or a disclaimer of opinion;

(b) The local government cannot have outstanding issues of general obligation or revenue bonds that are rated as less than investment grade; and

(c) The local government owner or operator must have a letter signed by the chief financial officer worded as specified in WAC 173-360A-1090.

(4) Financial information requirements. The local government owner or operator must have the following information available, as shown in the year-end financial statements for the latest completed fiscal year:

(a) Total revenues, consisting of the sum of general fund operating and nonoperating revenues including net local taxes, licenses and permits, fines and forfeitures, revenues from use of money and property, charges for services, investment earnings, sales (property, publications, etc.), intergovernmental revenues (restricted and unrestricted), and total revenues from all other governmental funds including enterprise, debt service, capital projects, and special revenues, but excluding revenues to funds held in a trust or agency capacity. For purposes of this test, the calculation of total revenues excludes all transfers between funds under the direct control of the local government using the financial test (interfund transfers), liquidation of investments, and issuance of debt;

(b) Total expenditures, consisting of the sum of general fund operating and nonoperating expenditures including public safety, public utilities, transportation, public works, environmental protection, cultural and recreational, community development, revenue sharing, employee benefits and compensation, office management, planning and zoning, capital projects, interest payments on debt, payments for retirement of debt principal, and total expenditures from all other governmental funds including enterprise, debt service, capital projects, and special revenues. For purposes of this test, the calculation of total expenditures excludes all transfers between funds under the direct control of the local government using the financial test (interfund transfers);

(c) Local revenues, consisting of total revenues (as defined in (a) of this subsection) minus the sum of all transfers from other governmental entities, including all monies received from federal, state, or local government sources;

(d) Debt service, consisting of the sum of all interest and principal payments on all long-term credit obligations and all interest-bearing short-term credit obligations. Includes interest and principal payments on general obligation bonds, revenue bonds, notes, mortgages, judgments, and interest bearing warrants. Excludes payments on noninterest-bearing short-term obligations, interfund obligations, amounts owed in a trust or agency capacity, and advances and contingent loans from other governments;

(e) Total funds, consisting of the sum of cash and investment securities from all funds, including general, enterprise, debt service, capital projects, and special revenue funds, but excluding employee retirement funds, at the end of the local government's financial reporting year. Includes federal securities, federal agency securities, state and local government securities, and other securities such as bonds, notes and mortgages. For purposes of this test, the calculation of total funds excludes agency funds, private trust funds, accounts receivable, value of real property, and other nonsecurity assets; and

(f) Population, consisting of the number of people in the area served by the local government.

(5) Letter from chief financial officer. To demonstrate that it meets the financial test under subsection (3) of this section, the chief financial officer of the local government owner or operator, must sign, within one hundred twenty days of the close of each financial reporting year, as defined by the twelve-month period for which financial statements used to support the financial test are prepared, a letter worded exactly as specified in WAC 173-360A-1090, except that the instructions in brackets are to be replaced by the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(6) Obtaining alternate coverage if fail test. If a local government owner or operator using the test to provide financial assurance finds that it no longer meets the requirements of the financial test based on the year-end financial statements, the owner or operator must obtain alternate coverage within one hundred fifty days of the end of the year for which financial statements have been prepared.

(7) Requests by department and findings of failure. The department may require reports of financial condition at any time from the local government owner or operator. If the department finds, on the basis of such reports or other information, that the local government owner or operator no longer meets the financial test requirements of subsection (3) of this section, the owner or operator must obtain alternate coverage within thirty days after notification of such a finding.

(8) Notification of department if fail to obtain alternate coverage. If a local government owner or operator fails to obtain alternate coverage within one hundred fifty days of finding that it no longer meets the requirements of the financial test based on the year-end financial statements or within thirty days of notification by the department that it no longer meets the requirements of the financial test, then by that date the owner or operator must notify the department of such failure and submit the evidence of financial responsibility specified in WAC 173-360A-1040(2).

(1) Applicability of mechanism. A local government owner or operator may satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 by obtaining a guarantee that conforms to the requirements of this section.

(2) Eligibility of guarantor. The guarantor must be either the state in which the local government owner or operator is located or a local government having a "substantial governmental relationship" with the owner and operator and issuing the guarantee as an act incident to that relationship.

(3) Test of guarantor. A local government acting as the guarantor must:

(a) Demonstrate that it meets the bond rating test requirements of WAC 173-360A-1070 and deliver a copy of the chief financial officer's letter as required in WAC 173-360A-1070(3) to the local government owner or operator;

(b) Demonstrate that it meets the financial test requirements of WAC 173-360A-1071 and deliver a copy of the chief financial officer's letter as required in WAC 173-360A-1071(5) to the local government owner or operator; or

(c) Demonstrate that it meets the local government fund requirements of WAC 173-360A-1073 and deliver a copy of the chief financial officer's letter as required in WAC 173-360A-1073(4) to the local government owner or operator.

(4) Content of guarantee. The content of the guarantee depends on whether the guarantor is a state or a local government and whether the guarantor guarantees to fund a standby trust.

(a) If the guarantor is a state and, in the default or incapacity of the owner or operator, the guarantor guarantees to fund a standby trust as directed by the department, then the guarantee must be worded as specified in WAC 173-360A-1091, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(b) If the guarantor is a local government and, in the default or incapacity of the owner or operator, the guarantor guarantees to fund a standby trust as directed by the department, then the guarantee must be worded as specified in WAC 173-360A-1092, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(c) If the guarantor is a state and, in the default or incapacity of the owner or operator, the guarantor guarantees to make payments as directed by the department for taking remedial action or compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage, then the guarantee must be worded as specified in WAC 173-360A-1093, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(d) If the guarantor is a local government and, in the default or incapacity of the owner or operator, the guarantor guarantees to make payments as directed by the department for taking remedial action or compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage, then the guarantee must be worded as specified in WAC 173-360A-1094, except that instructions in brackets are to be replaced with relevant information and the brackets deleted.

(5) Responsibilities upon failure of test. If the local government guarantor is unable to demonstrate financial assurance under WAC 173-360A-1070, 173-360A-1071, or 173-360A-1073, at the end of the financial reporting year, then the guarantor must send by certified mail, before cancellation or nonrenewal of the guarantee, notice to the owner or operator. The guarantee will terminate no less than one hundred twenty days after the date the owner or operator receives the notification, as evidenced by the return receipt. The owner or operator must obtain alternate coverage as specified in WAC 173-360A-1035(5).

(1) Applicability of mechanism. A local government owner or operator may satisfy the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015 by establishing a dedicated fund account that conforms to the requirements of this section.

(2) Restrictions on commingled funds. Except as specified in subsection (3)(b) of this section, a dedicated fund may not be commingled with other funds or otherwise used in normal operations.

(3) Local government fund requirements. To be considered eligible, a dedicated fund must meet one of the following requirements:

(a) The fund is dedicated by state constitutional provision, or local government statute, charter, ordinance, or order to pay for taking remedial action and for compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of underground storage tanks and is funded for the full amount of coverage required under WAC 173-360A-1015, or funded for part of the required amount of coverage and used in combination with other mechanism(s) that provide the remaining coverage;

(b) The fund is dedicated by state constitutional provision, or local government statute, charter, ordinance, or order as a contingency fund for general emergencies, including taking remedial action and compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of underground storage tanks, and is funded for five times the full amount of coverage required under WAC 173-360A-1015, or funded for part of the required amount of coverage and used in combination with other mechanism(s) that provide the remaining coverage. If the fund is funded for less than five times the amount of coverage required under WAC 173-360A-1015, the amount of financial responsibility demonstrated by the fund may not exceed one-fifth the amount in the fund; or

(c) The fund is dedicated by state constitutional provision, or local government statute, charter, ordinance or order to pay for taking remedial action and for compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of underground storage tanks. A payment must be made to the fund once every year for seven years until the fund is fully funded. This seven year period is hereafter referred to as the "pay-in-period." Equation 1073-1 must be used to determine the amount of each payment; and

(i) The local government owner or operator has available bonding authority, approved through voter referendum (if such approval is necessary prior to the issuance of bonds), for an amount equal to the difference between the required amount of coverage and the amount held in the dedicated fund. This bonding authority must be available for taking remedial action and for compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of underground storage tanks; or

(ii) The local government owner or operator has a letter signed by the appropriate state attorney general stating that the use of the bonding authority will not increase the local government's debt beyond the legal debt ceilings established by the relevant state laws. The letter must also state that prior voter approval is not necessary before use of the bonding authority.

(4) Letter from chief financial officer. To demonstrate that it meets the requirements of the local government fund, the chief financial officer of the local government owner or operator and/or guarantor must sign a letter worded exactly as specified in WAC 173-360A-1095, except that the instructions in brackets are to be replaced by the relevant information and the brackets deleted.

I am the chief financial officer of [insert: name and address of the owner or operator, or guarantor]. This letter is in support of the use of [insert: "the financial test of self-insurance," and/or "guarantee"] to demonstrate financial responsibility for [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage"] caused by [insert: "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"] in the amount of at least [insert: dollar amount] per occurrence and [insert: dollar amount] annual aggregate arising from operating (an) underground storage tank(s).

Underground storage tanks at the following facilities are assured by this financial test by this [insert: "owner or operator," and/or "guarantor"]: [List for each facility: The name and address of the facility where tanks assured by this financial test are located, and whether tanks are assured by this financial test. If separate mechanisms or combinations of mechanisms are being used to assure any of the tanks at this facility, list each tank assured by this financial test by the tank identification number provided in the notification submitted pursuant to WAC 173-360A-0200.]

A [insert: "financial test," and/or "guarantee"] is also used by this [insert: "owner or operator," or "guarantor"] to demonstrate evidence of financial responsibility in the following amounts under other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations or state programs authorized by EPA under 40 C.F.R. Parts 271 and 145:

This [insert: "owner or operator," or "guarantor"] has not received an adverse opinion, a disclaimer of opinion, or a "going concern" qualification from an independent auditor on his financial statements for the latest completed fiscal year.

[Fill in the information for Alternative I if the criteria of WAC 173-360A-1060 (2)(a) are being used to demonstrate compliance with the financial test requirements. Fill in the information for Alternative II if the criteria of WAC 173-360A-1060 (2)(b) are being used to demonstrate compliance with the financial test requirements.]

[For both Alternative I and Alternative II complete the certification with this statement.]

I hereby certify that the wording of this letter is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1080 as such regulations were constituted on the date shown immediately below.

[Signature]

[Name]

[Title]

[Date]

Guarantee made this [date] by name of guaranteeing entity, a business entity organized under the laws of (name of state), herein referred to as Guarantor, to the Washington State Department of Ecology and to any and all third parties, and obligees, on behalf of [owner or operator] of [business address].

1. Guarantor meets or exceeds the financial test criteria of WAC 173-360A-1060 (2)(a) or (b) and (3) and agrees to comply with the requirements for guarantors as specified in WAC 173-360A-1061(3).

2. [Owner or operator] owns or operates the following underground storage tank(s) covered by this Guarantee: [List the number of tanks at each facility and the name(s) and address(es) of the facility(ies) where the tanks are located. If more than one instrument is used to assure different tanks at any one facility, for each tank covered by this instrument, list the tank identification number provided in the notification submitted pursuant to WAC 173-360A-0200, and the name and address of the facility.] This Guarantee satisfies the requirements of Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC for assuring funding for [insert: "Taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"; if coverage is different for different tanks or locations, indicate the type of coverage applicable to each tank or location] arising from operating the above-identified underground storage tank(s) in the amount of [insert dollar amount] per occurrence and [insert dollar amount] annual aggregate.

3. [Insert appropriate phrase: "On behalf of our subsidiary" (if Guarantor is corporate parent of the owner or operator); "On behalf of our affiliate" (if Guarantor is a related firm of the owner or operator); or "Incident to our business relationship with" (if Guarantor is providing the Guarantee as an incident to a substantial business relationship with owner or operator)] [owner or operator], Guarantor guarantees to the Washington State Department of Ecology and to any and all third parties that:

a. In the event that [owner or operator] fails to provide alternate coverage within 60 days after receipt of a notice of cancellation of this Guarantee and the Washington State Department of Ecology has determined or suspects that a release has occurred at an underground storage tank covered by this Guarantee, the Guarantor, upon instructions from the Department, must fund a standby trust fund in accordance with the provisions of WAC 173-360A-1050, in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

b. In the event that the Department determines that [owner or operator] has failed to perform remedial action for releases arising out of the operation of the above-identified tank(s) in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750, the Guarantor, upon written instructions from the Department, must fund a standby trust in accordance with the provisions of WAC 173-360A-1050, in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

c. If [owner or operator] fails to satisfy a judgment or award based on a determination of liability for bodily injury or property damage to third parties caused by ["sudden" and/or "nonsudden"] accidental releases arising from the operation of the above-identified tank(s), or fails to pay an amount agreed to in settlement of a claim arising from or alleged to arise from such injury or damage, the Guarantor, upon written instructions from the Department, must fund a standby trust in accordance with the provisions of WAC 173-360A-1050 to satisfy such judgment(s), award(s), or settlement agreement(s) up to the limits of coverage specified above.

4. Guarantor agrees that if, at the end of any fiscal year before cancellation of this Guarantee, the Guarantor fails to meet the financial test criteria of WAC 173-360A-1060 (2)(a) or (b) and (3), Guarantor must send within 120 days of such failure, by certified mail, notice to [owner or operator]. The Guarantee will terminate 120 days from the date of receipt of the notice by [owner or operator], as evidenced by the return receipt.

5. Guarantor agrees to notify [owner or operator] by certified mail of a voluntary or involuntary proceeding under Title 11 (Bankruptcy), U.S. Code, naming Guarantor as debtor, within 10 days after commencement of the proceeding.

6. Guarantor agrees to remain bound under this Guarantee notwithstanding any modification or alteration of any obligation of [owner or operator] pursuant to chapter 173-360A WAC.

7. Guarantor agrees to remain bound under this Guarantee for so long as [owner or operator] must comply with the applicable financial responsibility requirements of Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC for the above-identified tank(s), except that Guarantor may cancel this Guarantee by sending notice by certified mail to [owner or operator], such cancellation to become effective no earlier than 120 days after receipt of such notice by [owner or operator], as evidenced by the return receipt.

8. The Guarantor's obligation does not apply to any of the following:

a. Any obligation of [insert owner or operator] under a workers' compensation, disability benefits, or unemployment compensation law or other similar law;

b. Bodily injury to an employee of [insert owner or operator] arising from, and in the course of, employment by [insert owner or operator];

c. Bodily injury or property damage arising from the ownership, maintenance, use, or entrustment to others of any aircraft, motor vehicle, or watercraft;

d. Property damage to any property owned, rented, loaned to, in the care, custody, or control of, or occupied by [insert owner or operator] that is not the direct result of a release from an underground storage tank;

e. Bodily damage or property damage for which [insert owner or operator] is obligated to pay damages by reason of the assumption of liability in a contract or agreement other than a contract or agreement entered into to meet the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015.

9. Guarantor expressly waives notice of acceptance of this Guarantee by the Washington State Department of Ecology, by any or all third parties, or by [owner or operator].

I hereby certify that the wording of this Guarantee is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1081 as such regulations were constituted on the effective date shown immediately below.

Effective date:

[Name of Guarantor]

[Authorized signature for Guarantor]

[Name of person signing]

[Title of person signing]

Signature of witness or notary:

Name: [name of each covered location]

Address: [address of each covered location]

Policy Number:

Period of Coverage: [current policy period]

Policy Retroactive Date:

Name of [Insurer or Risk Retention Group]:

Address of [Insurer or Risk Retention Group]:

Name of Insured:

Address of Insured:

1. This endorsement certifies that the policy to which the endorsement is attached provides liability insurance covering the following underground storage tanks:

[List the number of tanks at each facility and the name(s) and address(es) of the facility(ies) where the tanks are located. If more than one instrument is used to assure different tanks at any one facility, for each tank covered by this instrument, list the tank identification number provided in the notification submitted pursuant to WAC 173-360A-0200, and the name and address of the facility.]

for [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental release"; in accordance with and subject to the limits of liability, exclusions, conditions, and other terms of the policy; if coverage is different for different tanks or locations, indicate the type of coverage applicable to each tank or location] arising from operating the underground storage tank(s) identified above.

The limits of liability are [insert the dollar amount of the "each occurrence" and "annual aggregate" limits of the Insurer's or Group's liability; if the amount of coverage is different for different types of coverage or for different underground storage tanks or locations, indicate the amount of coverage for each type of coverage and/or for each underground storage tank or location], exclusive of legal defense costs, which are subject to a separate limit under the policy. This coverage is provided under [policy number]. The effective date of said policy is [date].

2. The insurance afforded with respect to such occurrences is subject to all of the terms and conditions of the policy; provided, however, that any provisions inconsistent with subsections (a) through (e) of this Paragraph 2 are hereby amended to conform with subsections (a) through (e):

a. Bankruptcy or insolvency of the insured does not relieve the ["Insurer" or "Group"] of its obligations under the policy to which this endorsement is attached.

b. The ["Insurer" or "Group"] is liable for the payment of amounts within any deductible applicable to the policy to the provider of remedial action or a damaged third-party, with a right of reimbursement by the insured for any such payment made by the ["Insurer" or "Group"]. This provision does not apply with respect to that amount of any deductible for which coverage is demonstrated under another mechanism or combination of mechanisms as specified in WAC 173-360A-1060 through 173-360A-1065, 173-360A-1067, and 173-360A-1070 through 173-360A-1073.

c. Whenever requested by the Washington State Department of Ecology, the ["Insurer" or "Group"] agrees to furnish to the Department a signed duplicate original of the policy and all endorsements.

d. Cancellation or any other termination of the insurance by the ["Insurer" or "Group"], except for nonpayment of premium or misrepresentation by the insured, will be effective only upon written notice and only after the expiration of 60 days after a copy of such written notice is received by the insured. Cancellation for nonpayment of premium or misrepresentation by the insured will be effective only upon written notice and only after expiration of a minimum of 10 days after a copy of such written notice is received by the insured.

[Insert for claims-made policies:

e. The insurance covers claims otherwise covered by the policy that are reported to the ["Insurer" or "Group"] within six months of the effective date of cancellation or nonrenewal of the policy except where the new or renewed policy has the same retroactive date or a retroactive date earlier than that of the prior policy, and which arise out of any covered occurrence that commenced after the policy retroactive date, if applicable, and prior to such policy renewal or termination date. Claims reported during such extended reporting period are subject to the terms, conditions, limits, including limits of liability, and exclusions of the policy.]

I hereby certify that the wording of this instrument is identical to the wording in WAC 173-360A-1082 and that the ["Insurer" or "Group"] is ["licensed to transact the business of insurance or eligible to provide insurance as an excess or surplus lines insurer in one or more states"].

[Signature of Authorized Representative of Insurer or Risk Retention Group]

[Name of person signing]

[Title of person signing], Authorized Representative of [name of Insurer or Risk Retention Group]

[Address of Representative]

Endorsement Holder:

Business Licensing Service

P.O. Box 9034

Olympia, WA 98507-9034

Name: [name of each covered location]

Address: [address of each covered location]

Policy Number:

Endorsement (if applicable):

Period of Coverage: [current policy period]

Policy Retroactive Date:

Name of [Insurer or Risk Retention Group]:

Address of [Insurer or Risk Retention Group]:

Name of Insured:

Address of Insured:

1. [Name of Insurer or Risk Retention Group], [the "Insurer" or "Group"], as identified above, hereby certifies that it has issued liability insurance covering the following underground storage tank(s):

[List the number of tanks at each facility and the name(s) and address(es) of the facility(ies) where the tanks are located. If more than one instrument is used to assure different tanks at any one facility, for each tank covered by this instrument, list the tank identification number provided in the notification submitted pursuant to WAC 173-360A-0200, and the name and address of the facility.]

for [insert: "Taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"; in accordance with and subject to the limits of liability, exclusions, conditions, and other terms of the policy; if coverage is different for different tanks or locations, indicate the type of coverage applicable to each tank or location] arising from operating the underground storage tank(s) identified above.

The limits of liability are [insert the dollar amount of the "each occurrence" and "annual aggregate" limits of the Insurer's or Group's liability; if the amount of coverage is different for different types of coverage or for different underground storage tanks or locations, indicate the amount of coverage for each type of coverage and/or for each underground storage tank or location], exclusive of legal defense costs, which are subject to a separate limit under the policy. This coverage is provided under [policy number]. The effective date of said policy is [date].

2. The ["Insurer" or "Group"] further certifies the following with respect to the insurance described in Paragraph 1:

a. Bankruptcy or insolvency of the insured does not relieve the ["Insurer" or "Group"] of its obligations under the policy to which this certificate applies.

b. The ["Insurer" or "Group"] is liable for the payment of amounts within any deductible applicable to the policy to the provider of remedial action or a damaged third-party, with a right of reimbursement by the insured for any such payment made by the ["Insurer" or "Group"]. This provision does not apply with respect to that amount of any deductible for which coverage is demonstrated under another mechanism or combination of mechanisms as specified in WAC 173-360A-1060 through 173-360A-1065, 173-360A-1067, and 173-360A-1070 through 173-360A-1073.

c. Whenever requested by the Washington State Department of Ecology, the ["Insurer" or "Group"] agrees to furnish the Department a signed duplicate original of the policy and all endorsements.

d. Cancellation or any other termination of the insurance by the ["Insurer" or "Group"], except for nonpayment of premium or misrepresentation by the insured, will be effective only upon written notice and only after the expiration of 60 days after a copy of such written notice is received by the insured. Cancellation for nonpayment of premium or misrepresentation by the insured will be effective only upon written notice and only after expiration of a minimum of 10 days after a copy of such notice is received by the insured.

[Insert for claims-made policies:

e. The insurance covers claims otherwise covered by the policy that are reported to the ["Insurer" or "Group"] within six months of the effective date of the cancellation or nonrenewal of the policy except where the new or renewed policy has the same retroactive date or a retroactive date earlier than that of the prior policy, and which arise out of any covered occurrence that commenced after the policy retroactive date, if applicable, and prior to such policy renewal or termination date. Claims reported during such extended reporting period are subject to the terms, conditions, limits, including limits of liability, and exclusions of the policy.]

I hereby certify that the wording of this instrument is identical to the wording in WAC 173-360A-1083 and that the ["Insurer" or "Group"] is ["licensed to transact the business of insurance, or eligible to provide insurance as an excess or surplus lines insurer, in one or more states"].

[Signature of Authorized Representative of Insurer]

[Type name]

[Title], Authorized Representative of [name of Insurer or Risk Retention Group]

[Address of Representative]

Certificate Holder:

Business Licensing Service

P.O. Box 9034

Olympia, WA 98507-9034

Date bond executed:

Period of coverage:

Principal: [legal name and business address of owner or operator]

Type of organization: [insert "individual," "joint venture," "partnership," or "corporation"]

State of incorporation (if applicable):

Surety(ies): [name(s) and business address(es)]

Scope of coverage: [List the number of tanks at each facility and the name(s) and address(es) of the facility(ies) where the tanks are located. If more than one instrument is used to assure different tanks at any one facility, for each tank covered by this instrument, list the tank identification number provided in the notification submitted pursuant to WAC 173-360A-0200, and the name and address of the facility. List the coverage guaranteed by the bond: "Taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases" "arising from operating the underground storage tank"].

Penal sums of bond:

Per occurrence $

Annual aggregate $

Surety's bond number:

Know All Persons by These Presents, that we, the Principal and Surety(ies), hereto are firmly bound to the Washington State Department of Ecology, in the above penal sums for the payment of which we bind ourselves, our heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns jointly and severally; provided that, where the Surety(ies) are corporations acting as co-sureties, we, the Sureties, bind ourselves in such sums jointly and severally only for the purpose of allowing a joint action or actions against any or all of us, and for all other purposes each Surety binds itself, jointly and severally with the Principal, for the payment of such sums only as is set forth opposite the name of such Surety, but if no limit of liability is indicated, the limit of liability is the full amount of the penal sums.

Whereas said Principal is required under the Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended, and chapter 90.76 RCW to provide financial assurance for [insert: "Taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"; if coverage is different for different tanks or locations, indicate the type of coverage applicable to each tank or location] arising from operating the underground storage tanks identified above; and

Whereas said Principal must establish a standby trust fund as is required when a surety bond is used to provide such financial assurance;

Now, therefore, the conditions of the obligation are such that if the Principal faithfully ["takes remedial action, in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750 and the Washington State Department of Ecology's instructions for," and/or "compensates injured third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"] arising from operating the tank(s) identified above, or if the Principal provides alternate financial assurance, as specified in Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC, within 120 days after the date the notice of cancellation is received by the Principal from the Surety(ies), then this obligation is null and void; otherwise it is to remain in full force and effect.

Such obligation does not apply to any of the following:

(1) Any obligation of [insert owner or operator] under a workers' compensation, disability benefits, or unemployment compensation law or other similar law;

(2) Bodily injury to an employee of [insert owner or operator] arising from, and in the course of, employment by [insert owner or operator];

(3) Bodily injury or property damage arising from the ownership, maintenance, use, or entrustment to others of any aircraft, motor vehicle, or watercraft;

(4) Property damage to any property owned, rented, loaned to, in the care, custody, or control of, or occupied by [insert owner or operator] that is not the direct result of a release from an underground storage tank;

(5) Bodily injury or property damage for which [insert owner or operator] is obligated to pay damages by reason of the assumption of liability in a contract or agreement other than a contract or agreement entered into to meet the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015.

The Surety(ies) become liable on this bond obligation only when the Principal has failed to fulfill the conditions described above.

Upon notification by the Washington State Department of Ecology that the Principal has failed to ["take remedial action, in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750 and the Department's instructions" and/or "compensate injured third parties"] as guaranteed by this bond, the Surety(ies) must either perform ["remedial action in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750 and the Department's instructions" and/or "third-party liability compensation"] or place funds in an amount up to the annual aggregate penal sum into the standby trust fund as directed by the Department under WAC 173-360A-1050.

Upon notification by the Department that the Principal has failed to provide alternate financial assurance within 60 days after the date the notice of cancellation is received by the Principal from the Surety(ies) and that the Department has determined or suspects that a release has occurred, the Surety(ies) must place funds in an amount not exceeding the annual aggregate penal sum into the standby trust fund as directed by the Department under WAC 173-360A-1050.

The Surety(ies) hereby waive(s) notification of amendments to applicable laws, statutes, rules, and regulations and agrees that no such amendment in any way alleviates its (their) obligation on this bond.

The liability of the Surety(ies) is not discharged by any payment or succession of payments hereunder, unless and until such payment or payments amount in the annual aggregate to the penal sum shown on the face of the bond, but in no event do the obligation of the Surety(ies) hereunder exceed the amount of said annual aggregate penal sum.

The Surety(ies) may cancel the bond by sending notice of cancellation by certified mail to the principal, provided, however, that cancellation must not occur during the 120 days beginning on the date of receipt of the notice of cancellation by the principal, as evidenced by the return receipt.

The Principal may terminate this bond by sending written notice to the Surety(ies).

In witness thereof, the Principal and Surety(ies) have executed this Bond and have affixed their seals on the date set forth above.

The persons whose signatures appear below hereby certify that they are authorized to execute this surety bond on behalf of the Principal and Surety(ies) and that the wording of this surety bond is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1084 as such regulations were constituted on the date this bond was executed.

[Signature(s)]

[Name(s)]

[Title(s)]

[Corporate seal]

[Name and address]

[State of incorporation:]

[Liability limit: $]

[Signature(s)]

[Name(s) and title(s)]

[Corporate seal]

[For every co-surety, provide signature(s), corporate seal, and other information in the same manner as for surety above.]

Bond premium: $

[Name and address of issuing institution]

[Name and address of the Washington State Department of Ecology]

Dear Sir or Madam: We hereby establish our Irrevocable Standby Letter of Credit No. . . . . in your favor, at the request and for the account of [owner or operator name] of [address] up to the aggregate amount of [in words] U.S. dollars ($[insert dollar amount]), available upon presentation of:

(1) Your sight draft, bearing reference to this letter of credit, No. . . . .; and

(2) Your signed statement reading as follows: "I certify that the amount of the draft is payable pursuant to regulations issued under authority of the Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended, and chapter 90.76 RCW."

This letter of credit may be drawn on to cover [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"] arising from operating the underground storage tank(s) identified below in the amount of [in words] $[insert dollar amount] per occurrence and [in words] $[insert dollar amount] annual aggregate:

[List the number of tanks at each facility and the name(s) and address(es) of the facility(ies) where the tanks are located. If more than one instrument is used to assure different tanks at any one facility, for each tank covered by this instrument, list the tank identification number provided in the notification submitted pursuant to WAC 173-360A-0200, and the name and address of the facility.]

The letter of credit may not be drawn on to cover any of the following:

(a) Any obligation of [insert owner or operator] under a workers' compensation, disability benefits, or unemployment compensation law or other similar law;

(b) Bodily injury to an employee of [insert owner or operator] arising from, and in the course of, employment by [insert owner or operator];

(c) Bodily injury or property damage arising from the ownership, maintenance, use, or entrustment to others of any aircraft, motor vehicle, or watercraft;

(d) Property damage to any property owned, rented, loaned to, in the care, custody, or control of, or occupied by [insert owner or operator] that is not the direct result of a release from an underground storage tank;

(e) Bodily injury or property damage for which [insert owner or operator] is obligated to pay damages by reason of the assumption of liability in a contract or agreement other than a contract or agreement entered into to meet the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015.

This letter of credit is effective as of [date] and expires on [date], but such expiration date is automatically extended for a period of [at least the length of the original term] on [expiration date] and on each successive expiration date, unless, at least 120 days before the current expiration date, we notify [owner or operator] by certified mail that we have decided not to extend this letter of credit beyond the current expiration date. In the event that [owner or operator] is so notified, any unused portion of the credit is available upon presentation of your sight draft for 120 days after the date of receipt by [owner or operator], as shown on the signed return receipt.

Whenever this letter of credit is drawn on under and in compliance with the terms of this credit, we must duly honor such draft upon presentation to us, and we must deposit the amount of the draft directly into the standby trust fund of [owner or operator] in accordance with your instructions.

We certify that the wording of this letter of credit is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1085 as such regulations were constituted on the date shown immediately below.

[Signature(s) and title(s) of official(s) of issuing institution]

[Date]

This credit is subject to [insert "the most recent edition of the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits, published by the International Chamber of Commerce," or "the Uniform Commercial Code"].

Trust agreement, the "Agreement," entered into as of [date] by and between [name of the owner or operator], a Washington state [insert "corporation," "partnership," "association," or "proprietorship"], the "Grantor," and [name of corporate trustee], [insert "Incorporated in the state of Washington" or "a national bank"], the "Trustee."

Whereas, the Department of Ecology, "Ecology", an agency of the state of Washington, has established certain regulations applicable to the grantor, requiring that an owner or operator of an underground storage tank must provide assurance that funds will be available when needed for remedial action and third-party compensation for bodily injury and property damage caused by sudden and nonsudden accidental releases arising from the operation of the underground storage tank. The attached Schedule A lists the number of tanks at each facility and the name(s) and addresses of the facility(ies) where the tanks are located that are covered by the [insert "standby" where trust agreement is standby trust agreement] trust agreement.

[Whereas, the Grantor has elected to establish [insert either "a guarantee," "surety bond," or "letter of credit"] to provide all or part of such financial assurance for the underground storage tanks identified herein and is required to establish a standby trust fund able to accept payments from the instrument (This paragraph is only applicable to the standby trust agreement.)];

Whereas, the Grantor, acting through its duly authorized officers, has selected the Trustee to be the trustee under this Agreement, and the Trustee is willing to act as trustee;

Now, therefore, the Grantor and the Trustee agree as follows:

As used in this Agreement:

(1) The term "Grantor" means the owner or operator who enters into this agreement and any successors or assigns of the Grantor.

(2) The term "Trustee" means the Trustee who enters into this agreement and any successor Trustee.

This Agreement pertains to the [identify the financial assurance mechanism, either a guarantee, surety bond, or letter of credit, from which the standby trust fund is established to receive payments (This paragraph is only applicable to the standby trust agreement.)].

The Grantor and the Trustee hereby establish a trust fund, the "fund," for the benefit of the Washington State Department of Ecology. The Grantor and the Trustee intend that no third party have access to the fund except as herein provided. [The fund is established initially as a standby to receive payments and does not consist of any property.] Payments made by the provider of financial assurance pursuant to the Washington State Department of Ecology's instruction are transferred to the Trustee and are referred to as the fund, together with all earnings and profits thereon, less any payments or distributions made by the Trustee pursuant to this Agreement. The fund must be held by the Trustee, IN TRUST, as thereinafter provided. The Trustee is not responsible nor does it undertake any responsibility for the amount or adequacy of, nor any duty to collect from the Grantor as provider of financial assurance, any payments necessary to discharge any liability of the Grantor established by the Washington State Department of Ecology.

The trustee must make payments from the fund as the Washington State Department of Ecology directs, in writing, to provide for the payment of the costs of [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"] arising from operating the tanks covered by the financial assurance mechanism identified in this Agreement.

The fund may not be drawn upon to cover any of the following:

(a) Any obligation of [insert owner or operator] under a workers' compensation, disability benefits, or unemployment compensation law or other similar law;

(b) Bodily injury to an employee of [insert owner or operator] arising from, and in the course of, employment by [insert owner or operator];

(c) Bodily injury or property damage arising from the ownership, maintenance, use, or entrustment to others of any aircraft, motor vehicle, or watercraft;

(d) Property damage to any property owned, rented, loaned to, in the care, custody, or control of, or occupied by [insert owner or operator] that is not the direct result of a release from an underground storage tank;

(e) Bodily injury or property damage for which [insert owner or operator] is obligated to pay damages by reason of the assumption of liability in a contract or agreement other than a contract or agreement entered into to meet the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015.

The Trustee must reimburse the Grantor, or other persons as specified by the Department from the fund for remedial action expenditures and/or third-party liability claims in such amounts as the Department directs in writing. In addition, the Trustee must refund to the Grantor such amounts as the Department specifies in writing. Upon refund, such funds no longer constitute part of the fund as defined herein.

Payments made to the Trustee for the fund must consist of cash and securities acceptable to the Trustee.

The Trustee must invest and reinvest the principal and income of the fund and keep the fund invested as a single fund, without distinction between principal and income, in accordance with general investment policies and guidelines which the Grantor may communicate in writing to the trustee from time to time, subject, however, to the provisions of this section. In investing, reinvesting, exchanging, selling, and managing the fund, the Trustee must discharge his duties with respect to the trust fund solely in the interest of the beneficiaries and with the care, skill, prudence, and diligence under the circumstances then prevailing which persons of prudence, acting in a like capacity and familiar with such matters, would use in the conduct of an enterprise of a like character and with like aims; except that:

(a) Securities or other obligations of the Grantor, or any other owner or operator of the tanks, or any of their affiliates as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, 15 U.S.C. 80a-2(1), must not be acquired or held, unless they are securities or other obligations of the federal or a state government;

(b) The Trustee is authorized to invest the fund in time or demand deposits of the Trustee, to the extent insured by an agency of the federal or state government; and

(c) The Trustee is authorized to hold cash awaiting investment or distribution uninvested for a reasonable time and without liability for the payment of interest thereon.

The Trustee is expressly authorized in its discretion:

(a) To transfer from time to time any or all of the assets of the fund to any common, commingled, or collective trust fund created by the Trustee in which the fund is eligible to participate, subject to all of the provisions thereof, to be commingled with the assets of other trusts participating therein; and

(b) To purchase shares in any investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, 15 U.S.C. 80a-1 et seq., including one which may be created, managed, underwritten, or to which investment advice is rendered or the shares of which are sold by the Trustee. The Trustee may vote such shares in its discretion.

Without in any way limiting the powers and discretions conferred upon the Trustee by the other provisions of this Agreement or by law, the Trustee is expressly authorized and empowered:

(a) To sell, exchange, convey, transfer, or otherwise dispose of any property held by it, by public or private sale. No person dealing with the Trustee is bound to see to the application of the purchase money or to inquire into the validity or expediency of any such sale or other disposition;

(b) To make, execute, acknowledge, and deliver any and all documents of transfer and conveyance and any and all other instruments that may be necessary or appropriate to carry out the powers herein granted;

(c) To register any securities held in the fund in its own name or in the name of a nominee and to hold any security in bearer form or in book entry, or to combine certificates representing such securities with certificates of the same issue held by the Trustee in other fiduciary capacities, or to deposit or arrange for the deposit of such securities in a qualified central depository even though, when so deposited, such securities may be merged and held in bulk in the name of the nominee of such depository with other securities deposited therein by another person, or to deposit or arrange for the deposit of any securities issued by the United States government, or any agency or instrumentality thereof, with a Federal Reserve bank, but the books and records of the Trustee must at all times show that all such securities are part of the fund;

(d) To deposit any cash in the fund in interest-bearing accounts maintained or savings certificates issued by the Trustee, in its separate corporate capacity, or in any other banking institution affiliated with the Trustee, to the extent insured by an agency of the federal or state government; and

(e) To compromise or otherwise adjust all claims in favor of or against the fund.

All taxes of any kind that may be assessed or levied against or in respect of the fund and all brokerage commissions incurred by the fund must be paid from the fund. All other expenses incurred by the Trustee in connection with the administration of this trust, including fees for legal services rendered to the Trustee, the compensation of the Trustee to the extent not paid directly by the Grantor, and all other proper charges and disbursements of the Trustee must be paid from the fund.

The Trustee may from time to time consult with counsel, who may be counsel to the Grantor, with respect to any questions arising as to the construction of this Agreement or any action to be taken hereunder. The Trustee is fully protected, to the extent permitted by law, in acting upon the advice of counsel.

The Trustee is entitled to reasonable compensation for its services as agreed upon in writing from time to time with the Grantor.

The Trustee may resign or the Grantor may replace the Trustee, but such resignation or replacement is not effective until the Grantor has appointed a successor trustee and this successor accepts the appointment. The successor trustee has the same powers and duties as those conferred upon the Trustee hereunder. Upon the successor trustee's acceptance of the appointment, the Trustee must assign, transfer, and pay over to the successor trustee the funds and properties then constituting the fund. If for any reason the Grantor cannot or does not act in the event of the resignation of the Trustee, the Trustee may apply to a court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor trustee or for instructions. The successor trustee must specify the date on which it assumes administration of the trust in writing sent to the Grantor and the present Trustee by certified mail 10 days before such change becomes effective. Any expenses incurred by the Trustee as a result of any of the acts contemplated by this section must be paid as provided in Section 9.

All orders, requests, and instructions by the Grantor to the Trustee must be in writing, signed by such persons as are designated in the attached Schedule B or such other designees as the Grantor may designate by amendment to Schedule B. The Trustee is fully protected in acting without inquiry in accordance with the Grantor's orders, requests, and instructions. All orders, requests, and instructions by the Washington State Department of Ecology to the Trustee must be in writing, signed by the Department, and the Trustee must act and is fully protected in acting in accordance with such orders, requests, and instructions. The Trustee has the right to assume, in the absence of written notice to the contrary, that no event constituting a change or a termination of the authority of any person to act on behalf of the Grantor or the Department, hereunder has occurred. The Trustee has no duty to act in the absence of such orders, requests, and instructions from the Grantor and/or the Department, except as provided for herein.

This Agreement may be amended by an instrument in writing executed by the Grantor and the Trustee, or by the Trustee and the Washington State Department of Ecology, if the Grantor ceases to exist.

Subject to the right of the parties to amend this Agreement as provided in Section 14, this trust is irrevocable and continues until terminated at the written direction of the Grantor and the Trustee, or by the Trustee and the Washington State Department of Ecology, if the Grantor ceases to exist. Upon termination of the trust, all remaining trust property, less final trust administration expenses, must be delivered to the Grantor.

The Trustee does not incur personal liability of any nature in connection with any act or omission, made in good faith, in the administration of this trust, or in carrying out any directions by the Grantor or the Washington State Department of Ecology, issued in accordance with this agreement. The Trustee is indemnified and saved harmless by the Grantor, from and against any personal liability to which the Trustee may be subjected by reason of any act or conduct in its official capacity, including all expenses reasonably incurred in its defense in the event the Grantor fails to provide such defense.

This Agreement must be administered, construed, and enforced according to the laws of the state of Washington, or the Comptroller of the Currency in the case of National Association banks.

As used in this Agreement, words in the singular include the plural and words in the plural include the singular. The descriptive headings for each section of this Agreement does not affect the interpretation or the legal efficacy of this Agreement.

In witness whereof the parties have caused this Agreement to be executed by their respective officers duly authorized and their corporate seals (if applicable) to be hereunto affixed and attested as of the date first above written. The parties below certify that the wording of this Agreement is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1086 as such regulations were constituted on the date written above.

[Signature of Grantor]

[Name of the Grantor]

[Title]

Attest:

[Signature of Trustee]

[Name of the Trustee]

[Title]

[Seal]

Attest:

[Signature of Witness]

[Name of Witness]

[Title]

[Seal]

State of Washington

County of

On this [date], before me personally came [owner or operator] to me known, who, being by me duly sworn, did depose and say that she/he resides at [address], that she/he is [title] of [corporation], the corporation described in and which executed the above instrument; that she/he knows the seal of said corporation; that the seal affixed to such instrument is such corporate seal; that it was so affixed by order of the board of directors of said corporation; and that she/he signed her/his name thereto by like order.

[Signature of notary public]

[Name of notary public]

I am the chief financial officer of [insert: name and address of local government owner or operator, or guarantor]. This letter is in support of the use of the bond rating test to demonstrate financial responsibility for [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage"] caused by [insert: "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"] in the amount of at least [insert: dollar amount] per occurrence and [insert: dollar amount] annual aggregate arising from operating (an) underground storage tank(s).

Underground storage tanks at the following facilities are assured by this bond rating test: [List for each facility: the name and address of the facility where tanks are assured by the bond rating test].

The details of the issue date, maturity, outstanding amount, bond rating, and bond rating agency of all outstanding bond issues that are being used by [name of local government owner or operator, or guarantor] to demonstrate financial responsibility are as follows: [complete table]

The total outstanding obligation of [insert amount], excluding refunded bond issues, exceeds the minimum amount of $1 million. All outstanding general obligation bonds issued by this government that have been rated by Moody's or Standard & Poor's are rated as at least investment grade (Moody's Baa or Standard & Poor's BBB) based on the most recent ratings published within the last 12 months. Neither rating service has provided notification within the last 12 months of downgrading of bond ratings below investment grade or of withdrawal of bond rating other than for repayment of outstanding bond issues.

I hereby certify that the wording of this letter is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1088 as such regulations were constituted on the date shown immediately below.

[Date]

[Signature]

[Name]

[Title]

I am the chief financial officer of [insert: name and address of local government owner or operator, or guarantor]. This letter is in support of the use of the bond rating test to demonstrate financial responsibility for [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage"] caused by [insert: "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"] in the amount of at least [insert: dollar amount] per occurrence and [insert: dollar amount] annual aggregate arising from operating (an) underground storage tank(s). This local government is not organized to provide general governmental services and does not have the legal authority under state law or constitutional provisions to issue general obligation debt.

Underground storage tanks at the following facilities are assured by this bond rating test: [List for each facility: the name and address of the facility where tanks are assured by the bond rating test].

The details of the issue date, maturity, outstanding amount, bond rating, and bond rating agency of all outstanding revenue bond issues that are being used by [name of local government owner or operator, or guarantor] to demonstrate financial responsibility are as follows: [complete table]

The total outstanding obligation of [insert amount], excluding refunded bond issues, exceeds the minimum amount of $1 million. All outstanding revenue bonds issued by this government that have been rated by Moody's or Standard & Poor's are rated as at least investment grade (Moody's Baa or Standard & Poor's BBB) based on the most recent ratings published within the last 12 months. The revenue bonds listed are not backed by third-party credit enhancement or insured by a municipal bond insurance company. Neither rating service has provided notification within the last 12 months of downgrading of bond ratings below investment grade or of withdrawal of bond rating other than for repayment of outstanding bond issues.

I hereby certify that the wording of this letter is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1089 as such regulations were constituted on the date shown immediately below.

[Date]

[Signature]

[Name]

[Title]

I am the chief financial officer of [insert: name and address of the owner or operator]. This letter is in support of the use of the local government financial test to demonstrate financial responsibility for [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage"] caused by [insert: "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"] in the amount of at least [insert: dollar amount] per occurrence and [insert: dollar amount] annual aggregate arising from operating [an] underground storage tank[s].

Underground storage tanks at the following facilities are assured by this financial test [List for each facility: the name and address of the facility where tanks assured by this financial test are located. If separate mechanisms or combinations of mechanisms are being used to assure any of the tanks at this facility, list each tank assured by this financial test by the tank identification number provided in the notification submitted pursuant to WAC 173-360A-0200.]

This owner or operator has not received an adverse opinion, or a disclaimer of opinion from an independent auditor on its financial statements for the latest completed fiscal year. Any outstanding issues of general obligation or revenue bonds, if rated, have a Moody's rating of Aaa, Aa, A, or Baa or a Standard & Poor's rating of AAA, AA, A, or BBB; if rated by both firms, the bonds have a Moody's rating of Aaa, Aa, A, or Baa and a Standard & Poor's rating of AAA, AA, A, or BBB.

Worksheet for Municipal Financial Test

Part I – Basic Information

1. Total Revenues

a. Revenues (dollars): _________

Value of revenues excludes liquidation of investments and issuance of debt. Value includes all general fund operating and non-operating revenues, as well as all revenues from all other governmental funds including enterprise, debt service, capital projects, and special revenues, but excluding revenues to funds held in a trust or agency capacity.

b. Subtract interfund transfers (dollars): _________

c. Total Revenues (dollars): __________

2. Total Expenditures

a. Expenditures (dollars): _________

Value consists of the sum of general fund operating and non-operating expenditures including interest payments on debt, payments for retirement of debt principal, and total expenditures from all other governmental funds including enterprise, debt service, capital projects, and special revenues.

b. Subtract interfund transfers (dollars): _________

c. Total Expenditures (dollars): __________

3. Local Revenues

a. Total Revenues (from 1c) (dollars): _________

b. Subtract total intergovernmental transfers (dollars): _________

c. Local Revenues (dollars): __________

4. Debt Service

a. Interest and fiscal charges (dollars): _________

b. Add debt retirement (dollars): _________

c. Total Debt Service (dollars): __________

5. Total Funds (Dollars): _________

Sum of amounts held as cash and investment securities from all funds, excluding amounts held for employee retirement funds, agency funds, and trust funds.

6. Population (Persons): _________

Part II – Application of Test

7. Total Revenues to Population

a. Total Revenues (from 1c): _________

b. Population (from 6): _________

c. Divide 7a by 7b: _________

d. Subtract 417: _________

e. Divide by 5,212: _________

f. Multiply by 4.095: __________

8. Total Expenses to Population

a. Total Expenses (from 2c): _________

b. Population (from 6): _________

c. Divide 8a by 8b: _________

d. Subtract 524: _________

e. Divide by 5,401: _________

f. Multiply by 4.095: __________

9. Local Revenues to Total Revenues

a. Local Revenues (from 3c): _________

b. Total Revenues (from 1c): _________

c. Divide 9a by 9b: _________

d. Subtract 0.695: _________

e. Divide by 0.205: _________

f. Multiply by 2.840: __________

10. Debt Service to Population

a. Debt Service (from 4c): _________

b. Population (from 6): _________

c. Divide 10a by 10b: _________

d. Subtract 51: _________

e. Divide by 1,038: _________

f. Multiply by –1.866: __________

11. Debt Service to Total Revenues

a. Debt Service (from 4c): _________

b. Total Revenues (from 1c): _________

c. Divide 11a by 11b: _________

d. Subtract 0.068: _________

e. Divide by 0.259: _________

f. Multiply by –3.533: __________

12. Total Revenues to Total Expenses

a. Total Revenues (from 1c): _________

b. Total Expenses (from 2c): _________

c. Divide 12a by 12b: _________

d. Subtract 0.910: _________

e. Divide by 0.899: _________

f. Multiply by 3.458: __________

13. Funds Balance to Total Revenues

a. Total Funds (from 5): _________

b. Total Revenues (from 1c): _________

c. Divide 13a by 13b: _________

d. Subtract 0.891: _________

e. Divide by 9.156: _________

f. Multiply by 3.270: __________

14. Funds Balance to Total Expenses

a. Total Funds (from 5): _________

b. Total Expenses (from 2c): _________

c. Divide 14a by 14b: _________

d. Subtract 0.866: _________

e. Divide by 6.409: _________

f. Multiply by 3.270: __________

15. Total Funds to Population

a. Total Funds (from 5): _________

b. Population (from 6): _________

c. Divide 15a by 15b: _________

d. Subtract 270: _________

e. Divide by 4,548: _________

f. Multiply by 1.866: __________

16. Add 7f + 8f + 9f + 10f + 11f + 12f + 13f + 14f + 15f + 4.937: ___________

I hereby certify that the financial index shown on line 16 of the worksheet is greater than zero and that the wording of this letter is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1090 as such regulations were constituted on the date shown immediately below.

[Date]

[Signature]

[Name]

[Title]

Guarantee made this [date] by [name of state], herein referred to as Guarantor, to the Washington State Department of Ecology and to any and all third parties, and obliges, on behalf of [local government owner or operator].

1. Guarantor is a state.

2. [Local government owner or operator] owns or operates the following underground storage tank(s) covered by this Guarantee: [List the number of tanks at each facility and the name(s) and address(es) of the facility(ies) where the tanks are located. If more than one instrument is used to assure different tanks at any one facility, for each tank covered by this instrument, list the tank identification number provided in the notification submitted pursuant to WAC 173-360A-0200, and the name and address of the facility.] This Guarantee satisfies requirements of Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC for assuring funding for [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"; if coverage is different for different tanks or locations, indicate the type of coverage applicable to each tank or location] arising from operating the above-identified underground storage tank(s) in the amount of [insert dollar amount] per occurrence and [insert dollar amount] annual aggregate.

3. Guarantor guarantees to the Washington State Department of Ecology and to any and all third parties that:

a. In the event that [local government owner or operator] fails to provide alternate coverage within 60 days after receipt of a notice of cancellation of this Guarantee and the Washington State Department of Ecology has determined or suspects that a release has occurred at an underground storage tank covered by this Guarantee, the Guarantor, upon instructions from the Department must fund a standby trust fund in accordance with the provisions of WAC 173-360A-1050, in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

b. In the event that the Department determines that [local government owner or operator] has failed to perform remedial action for releases arising out of the operation of the above-identified tanks(s) in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750, the Guarantor upon written instructions from the Department must fund a standby trust fund in accordance with the provisions of WAC 173-360A-1050, in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

c. If [owner or operator] fails to satisfy a judgment or award based on a determination of liability for bodily injury or property damage to third parties caused by ["sudden" and/or "nonsudden"] accidental releases arising from the operation of the above-identified tank(s), or fails to pay an amount agreed to in settlement of a claim arising from or alleged to arise from such injury or damage, the Guarantor, upon written instructions from the Department, must fund a standby trust in accordance with the provisions of WAC 173-360A-1050 to satisfy such judgment(s), award(s), or settlement agreement(s) up to the limits of coverage specified above.

4. Guarantor agrees to notify [owner or operator] by certified mail of a voluntary or involuntary proceeding under Title 11 (Bankruptcy), U.S. Code naming Guarantor as debtor, within 10 days after commencement of the proceeding.

5. Guarantor agrees to remain bound under this Guarantee notwithstanding any modification or alteration of any obligation of [owner or operator] pursuant to chapter 173-360A WAC.

6. Guarantor agrees to remain bound under this Guarantee for so long as [local government owner or operator] must comply with the applicable financial responsibility requirements of Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC for the above identified tank(s), except that Guarantor may cancel this Guarantee by sending notice by certified mail to [owner or operator], such cancellation to become effective no earlier than 120 days after receipt of such notice by [owner or operator], as evidenced by the return receipt.

7. The Guarantor's obligation does not apply to any of the following:

a. Any obligation of [local government owner or operator] under a workers' compensation, disability benefits, or unemployment compensation law or other similar law;

b. Bodily injury to an employee of [insert: local government owner or operator] arising from, and in the course of, employment by [insert: local government owner or operator];

c. Bodily injury or property damage arising from the ownership, maintenance, use, or entrustment to others of any aircraft, motor vehicle, or watercraft;

d. Property damage to any property owned, rented, loaned to, in the care, custody, or control of, or occupied by [insert: local government owner or operator] that is not the direct result of a release from an underground storage tank;

e. Bodily damage or property damage for which [insert owner or operator] is obligated to pay damages by reason of the assumption of liability in a contract or agreement other than a contract or agreement entered into to meet the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015.

8. Guarantor expressly waives notice of acceptance of this Guarantee by the Washington State Department of Ecology, by any or all third parties, or by [local government owner or operator].

I hereby certify that the wording of this Guarantee is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1091 as such regulations were constituted on the effective date shown immediately below.

Effective date: ______________

[Name of Guarantor]

[Authorized signature for Guarantor]

[Name of person signing]

[Title of person signing]

Signature of witness or notary:

Guarantee made this [date] by [name of guaranteeing entity], a local government organized under the laws of [name of state], herein referred to as Guarantor, to the Washington State Department of Ecology and to any and all third parties, and obliges, on behalf of [local government owner or operator].

1. Guarantor meets or exceeds [select one: the local government bond rating test requirements of WAC 173-360A-1070, the local government financial test requirements of WAC 173-360A-1071, or the local government fund requirements of WAC 173-360A-1073].

2. [Local government owner or operator] owns or operates the following underground storage tank(s) covered by this Guarantee: [List the number of tanks at each facility and the name(s) and address(es) of the facility(ies) where the tanks are located. If more than one instrument is used to assure different tanks at any one facility, for each tank covered by this instrument, list the tank identification number provided in the notification submitted pursuant to WAC 173-360A-0200, and the name and address of the facility.] This Guarantee satisfies the requirements of Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC for assuring funding for [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"; if coverage is different for different tanks or locations, indicate the type of coverage applicable to each tank or location] arising from operating the above-identified underground storage tank(s) in the amount of [insert dollar amount] per occurrence and [insert: dollar amount] annual aggregate.

3. Incident to our substantial governmental relationship with [local government owner or operator], Guarantor guarantees to Washington State Department of Ecology and to any and all third parties that:

a. In the event that [local government owner or operator] fails to provide alternate coverage within 60 days after receipt of a notice of cancellation of this Guarantee and the Washington State Department of Ecology has determined or suspects that a release has occurred at an underground storage tank covered by this Guarantee, the Guarantor, upon instructions from the Department must fund a standby trust fund in accordance with the provisions of WAC 173-360A-1050, in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

b. In the event that the Department determines that [local government owner or operator] has failed to perform remedial action for releases arising out of the operation of the above-identified tank(s) in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750, the Guarantor upon written instructions from the Department must fund a standby trust fund in accordance with the provisions of WAC 173-360A-1050, in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

c. If [owner or operator] fails to satisfy a judgment or award based on a determination of liability for bodily injury or property damage to third parties caused by ["sudden" and/or "nonsudden"] accidental releases arising from the operation of the above-identified tank(s), or fails to pay an amount agreed to in settlement of a claim arising from or alleged to arise from such injury or damage, the Guarantor, upon written instructions from the Department, must fund a standby trust in accordance with the provisions of WAC 173-360A-1050 to satisfy such judgment(s), award(s), or settlement agreement(s) up to the limits of coverage specified above.

4. Guarantor agrees that, if at the end of any fiscal year before cancellation of this Guarantee, the Guarantor fails to meet or exceed the requirements of the financial responsibility mechanism specified in paragraph (1), Guarantor must send within 120 days of such failure, by certified mail, notice to [local government owner or operator], as evidenced by the return receipt.

5. Guarantor agrees to notify [owner or operator] by certified mail of a voluntary or involuntary proceeding under Title 11 (Bankruptcy), U.S. Code naming Guarantor as debtor, within 10 days after commencement of the proceeding.

6. Guarantor agrees to remain bound under this Guarantee notwithstanding any modification or alteration of any obligation of [owner or operator] pursuant to chapter 173-360A WAC.

7. Guarantor agrees to remain bound under this Guarantee for so long as [local government owner or operator] must comply with the applicable financial responsibility requirements of Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC for the above identified tank(s), except that Guarantor may cancel this Guarantee by sending notice by certified mail to [owner or operator], such cancellation to become effective no earlier than 120 days after receipt of such notice by [owner or operator], as evidenced by the return receipt.

8. The Guarantor's obligation does not apply to any of the following:

a. Any obligation of [local government owner or operator] under a workers' compensation, disability benefits, or unemployment compensation law or other similar law;

b. Bodily injury to an employee of [insert: local government owner or operator] arising from, and in the course of, employment by [insert: local government owner or operator];

c. Bodily injury or property damage arising from the ownership, maintenance, use, or entrustment to others of any aircraft, motor vehicle, or watercraft;

d. Property damage to any property owned, rented, loaned to, in the care, custody, or control of, or occupied by [insert: local government owner or operator] that is not the direct result of a release from an underground storage tank;

e. Bodily damage or property damage for which [insert: owner or operator] is obligated to pay damages by reason of the assumption of liability in a contract or agreement other than a contract or agreement entered into to meet the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015.

9. Guarantor expressly waives notice of acceptance of this Guarantee by the Washington State Department of Ecology, by any or all third parties, or by [local government owner or operator].

I hereby certify that the wording of this Guarantee is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1092 as such regulations were constituted on the effective date shown immediately below.

Effective date: ______________

[Name of Guarantor]

[Authorized signature for Guarantor]

[Name of person signing]

[Title of person signing]

Signature of witness or notary:

Guarantee made this [date] by [name of state], herein referred to as Guarantor, to the Washington State Department of Ecology and to any and all third parties, and obliges, on behalf of [local government owner or operator].

1. Guarantor is a state.

2. [Local government owner or operator] owns or operates the following underground storage tank(s) covered by this Guarantee: [List the number of tanks at each facility and the name(s) and address(es) of the facility(ies) where the tanks are located. If more than one instrument is used to assure different tanks at any one facility, for each tank covered by this instrument, list the tank identification number provided in the notification submitted pursuant to WAC 173-360A-0200, and the name and address of the facility.] This Guarantee satisfies the requirements of Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC for assuring funding for [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"; if coverage is different for different tanks or locations, indicate the type of coverage applicable to each tank or location] arising from operating the above-identified underground storage tank(s) in the amount of [insert: dollar amount] per occurrence and [insert: dollar amount] annual aggregate.

3. Guarantor guarantees to the Washington State Department of Ecology and to any and all third parties and obliges that:

a. In the event that [local government owner or operator] fails to provide alternate coverage within 60 days after receipt of a notice of cancellation of this Guarantee and the Washington State Department of Ecology has determined or suspects that a release has occurred at an underground storage tank covered by this Guarantee, the Guarantor, upon written instructions from the Department must make funds available to pay for remedial actions and compensate third parties for bodily injury and property damage in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

b. In the event that the Department determines that [local government owner or operator] has failed to perform remedial action for releases arising out of the operation of the above-identified tank(s) in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750, the Guarantor upon written instructions from the Department must make funds available to pay for remedial actions in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

c. If [owner or operator] fails to satisfy a judgment or award based on a determination of liability for bodily injury or property damage to third parties caused by ["sudden" and/or "nonsudden"] accidental releases arising from the operation of the above-identified tank(s), or fails to pay an amount agreed to in settlement of a claim arising from or alleged to arise from such injury or damage, the Guarantor, upon written instructions from the Department, must make funds available to compensate third parties for bodily injury and property damage in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

4. Guarantor agrees to notify [owner or operator] by certified mail of a voluntary or involuntary proceeding under Title 11 (Bankruptcy), U.S. Code naming Guarantor as debtor, within 10 days after commencement of the proceeding.

5. Guarantor agrees to remain bound under this Guarantee notwithstanding any modification or alteration of any obligation of [owner or operator] pursuant to chapter 173-360A WAC.

6. Guarantor agrees to remain bound under this Guarantee for so long as [local government owner or operator] must comply with the applicable financial responsibility requirements of Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC for the above identified tank(s), except that Guarantor may cancel this Guarantee by sending notice by certified mail to [owner or operator], such cancellation to become effective no earlier than 120 days after receipt of such notice by [owner or operator], as evidenced by the return receipt. If notified of a probable release, the Guarantor agrees to remain bound to the terms of this Guarantee for all charges arising from the release, up to the coverage limits specified above, notwithstanding the cancellation of the Guarantee with respect to future releases.

7. The Guarantor's obligation does not apply to any of the following:

a. Any obligation of [local government owner or operator] under a workers' compensation disability benefits, or unemployment compensation law or other similar law;

b. Bodily injury to an employee of [insert local government owner or operator] arising from, and in the course of, employment by [insert: local government owner or operator];

c. Bodily injury or property damage arising from the ownership, maintenance, use, or entrustment to others of any aircraft, motor vehicle, or watercraft;

d. Property damage to any property owned, rented, loaned to, in the care, custody, or control of, or occupied by [insert: local government owner or operator] that is not the direct result of a release from an underground storage tank;

e. Bodily damage or property damage for which [insert: owner or operator] is obligated to pay damages by reason of the assumption of liability in a contract or agreement other than a contract or agreement entered into to meet the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015.

8. Guarantor expressly waives notice of acceptance of this Guarantee by the Washington State Department of Ecology, by any or all third parties, or by [local government owner or operator].

I hereby certify that the wording of this Guarantee is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1093 as such regulations were constituted on the effective date shown immediately below.

Effective date: ______________

[Name of Guarantor]

[Authorized signature for Guarantor]

[Name of person signing]

[Title of person signing]

Signature of witness or notary:

Guarantee made this [date] by [name of guaranteeing entity], a local government organized under the laws of [name of state], herein referred to as Guarantor, to the Washington State Department of Ecology and to any and all third parties, and obliges, on behalf of [local government owner or operator].

1. Guarantor meets or exceeds [select one: the local government bond rating test requirements of WAC 173-360A-1070, the local government financial test requirements of WAC 173-360A-1071, or the local government fund requirements of WAC 173-360A-1073].

2. [Local government owner or operator] owns or operates the following underground storage tank(s) covered by this Guarantee: [List the number of tanks at each facility and the name(s) and address(es) of the facility(ies) where the tanks are located. If more than one instrument is used to assure different tanks at any one facility, for each tank covered by this instrument, list the tank identification number provided in the notification submitted pursuant to WAC 173-360A-0200, and the name and address of the facility.] This Guarantee satisfies the requirements of Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC for assuring funding for [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"; if coverage is different for different tanks or locations, indicate the type of coverage applicable to each tank or location] arising from operating the above-identified underground storage tank(s) in the amount of [insert: dollar amount] per occurrence and [insert: dollar amount] annual aggregate.

3. Incident to our substantial governmental relationship with [local government owner or operator], Guarantor guarantees to the Washington State Department of Ecology and to any and all third parties and obliges that:

a. In the event that [local government owner or operator] fails to provide alternate coverage within 60 days after receipt of a notice of cancellation of this Guarantee and the Washington State Department of Ecology has determined or suspects that a release has occurred at an underground storage tank covered by this Guarantee, the Guarantor, upon written instructions from the Department must make funds available to pay for remedial actions and compensate third parties for bodily injury and property damage in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

b. In the event that the Department determines that [local government owner or operator] has failed to perform remedial action for releases arising out of the operation of the above-identified tank(s) in accordance with WAC 173-360A-0750, the Guarantor upon written instructions from the Department must make funds available to pay for remedial actions in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

c. If [owner or operator] fails to satisfy a judgment or award based on a determination of liability for bodily injury or property damage to third parties caused by ["sudden" and/or "nonsudden"] accidental releases arising from the operation of the above-identified tank(s), or fails to pay an amount agreed to in settlement of a claim arising from or alleged to arise from such injury or damage, the Guarantor, upon written instructions from the Department, must make funds available to compensate third parties for bodily injury and property damage in an amount not to exceed the coverage limits specified above.

4. Guarantor agrees that if at the end of any fiscal year before cancellation of this Guarantee, the Guarantor fails to meet or exceed the requirements of the financial responsibility mechanism specified in paragraph (1), Guarantor must send within 120 days of such failure, by certified mail, notice to [local government owner or operator], as evidenced by the return receipt.

5. Guarantor agrees to notify [owner or operator] by certified mail of a voluntary or involuntary proceeding under Title 11 (Bankruptcy), U.S. Code naming Guarantor as debtor, within 10 days after commencement of the proceeding.

6. Guarantor agrees to remain bound under this Guarantee notwithstanding any modification or alteration of any obligation of [owner or operator] pursuant to chapter 173-360A WAC.

7. Guarantor agrees to remain bound under this Guarantee for so long as [local government owner or operator] must comply with the applicable financial responsibility requirements of Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC for the above identified tank(s), except that Guarantor may cancel this Guarantee by sending notice by certified mail to [owner or operator], such cancellation to become effective no earlier than 120 days after receipt of such notice by [owner or operator], as evidenced by the return receipt. If notified of a probable release, the Guarantor agrees to remain bound to the terms of this Guarantee for all charges arising from the release, up to the coverage limits specified above, notwithstanding the cancellation of the Guarantee with respect to future releases.

8. The Guarantor's obligation does not apply to any of the following:

a. Any obligation of [local government owner or operator] under a workers' compensation disability benefits, or unemployment compensation law or other similar law;

b. Bodily injury to an employee of [insert: local government owner or operator] arising from, and in the course of, employment by [insert: local government owner or operator];

c. Bodily injury or property damage arising from the ownership, maintenance, use, or entrustment to others of any aircraft, motor vehicle, or watercraft;

d. Property damage to any property owned, rented, loaned to, in the care, custody, or control of, or occupied by [insert: local government owner or operator] that is not the direct result of a release from an underground storage tank;

e. Bodily damage or property damage for which [insert: owner or operator] is obligated to pay damages by reason of the assumption of liability in a contract or agreement other than a contract or agreement entered into to meet the requirements of WAC 173-360A-1015.

9. Guarantor expressly waives notice of acceptance of this Guarantee by the Washington State Department of Ecology, by any or all third parties, or by [local government owner or operator].

I hereby certify that the wording of this Guarantee is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1094 as such regulations were constituted on the effective date shown immediately below.

Effective date: ______________

[Name of Guarantor]

[Authorized signature for Guarantor]

[Name of person signing]

[Title of person signing]

Signature of witness or notary:

I am the chief financial officer of [insert: name and address of local government owner or operator, or guarantor]. This letter is in support of the use of the local government fund mechanism to demonstrate financial responsibility for [insert: "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage"] caused by [insert: "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases"] in the amount of at least [insert: dollar amount] per occurrence and [insert: dollar amount] annual aggregate arising from operating (an) underground storage tank(s).

Underground storage tanks at the following facilities are assured by this local government fund mechanism: [List for each facility: the name and address of the facility where tanks are assured by the local government fund].

[Insert: "The local government fund is funded for the full amount of coverage required under WAC 173-360A-1015, or funded for part of the required amount of coverage and used in combination with other mechanism(s) that provide the remaining coverage," or "The local government fund is funded for five times the full amount of coverage required under WAC 173-360A-1015, or funded for part of the required amount of coverage and used in combination with other mechanisms(s) that provide the remaining coverage," or "A payment is made to the fund once every year for seven years until the fund is fully funded and [name of local government owner or operator] has available bonding authority, approved through voter referendum, of an amount equal to the difference between the required amount of coverage and the amount held in the dedicated fund" or "A payment is made to the fund once every year for seven years until the fund is fully funded and I have attached a letter signed by the State Attorney General stating that (1) the use of the bonding authority will not increase the local government's debt beyond the legal debt ceilings established by the relevant state laws and (2) that prior voter approval is not necessary before use of the bonding authority"].

The details of the local government fund are as follows:

Amount in Fund (market value of fund at close of last fiscal year): _________________

[If fund balance is incrementally funded as specified in WAC 173-360A-1073 (3)(c), insert: Amount added to fund in the most recently completed fiscal year: _______________

Number of years remaining in the pay-in period: ______

A copy of the state constitutional provision, or local government statute, charter, ordinance or order dedicating the fund is attached.

I hereby certify that the wording of this letter is identical to the wording specified in WAC 173-360A-1095 as such regulations were constituted on the date shown immediately below.

[Date]

[Signature]

[Name]

[Title]

[Owner or operator] hereby certifies that it is in compliance with the requirements of Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC.

The financial assurance mechanism[s] used to demonstrate financial responsibility under Part 10 of chapter 173-360A WAC is [are] as follows:

[For each mechanism, list the type of mechanism, name of issuer, mechanism number (if applicable), amount of coverage, effective period of coverage and whether the mechanism covers "taking remedial action" and/or "compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by" either "sudden accidental releases" or "nonsudden accidental releases" or "accidental releases."]

[Signature of owner or operator]

[Name of owner or operator]

[Title]

[Date]

[Signature of witness or notary]

[Name of witness or notary]

[Date]

The undersigned, as principals and as legal representatives of [insert owner or operator] and [insert name and address of third-party claimant], hereby certify that the claim of bodily injury [and/or] property damage caused by an accidental release arising from operating [owner's or operator's] underground storage tank should be paid in the amount of $[___].

[Signatures]

Owner or Operator

Attorney for Owner or Operator

(notary)

Date

[Signature(s)]

Claimant(s)

Attorney(s) for Claimant(s)

(notary)

Date