Gas Station Information

Since 2001, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has adopted a number of significant enhancements to gasoline dispensing facilities' (GDF) vapor recovery systems. These efforts are necessary to ensure the continued effective operation of the vapor recovery systems during the transfer and dispensing of gasoline at stations as well as ensure the health of our community. 

At the Air District, we work to limit your exposure to air toxics and help you be better informed so you can help protect your health. 

Below, find information for gas station business owners, or click here to see our "Clean Air Starts at the Nozzle" flyer!

Business Owner Information 

Vapor Recovery Program for Gasoline Dispensing and Storage

The California Air Resources Board Enhanced Vapor Recovery (EVR) regulations for gasoline dispensing facilities became State law on April 1, 2001. New installations and existing facilities are required to comply with EVR regulations. Gas station owners and operators are responsible for operating and maintaining their facilities in compliance with APCD rules and regulations. The Permit to Operate outlines measures the facility must take to ensure compliance with all regulations. Vapor recovery testing is required for facilities at least once in each twelve (12) consecutive month period according to an Air Pollution Control Officer (APCO) approved test schedule.

Notifications

Vapor Recovery compliance testing requires a District witness unless otherwise authorized by the Air Pollution Control Officer.  Contact the District by emailing [email protected] at least three (3) days prior to the proposed test date. The District will respond to either confirm availability to witness or to request an alternate date/time. If a test must be rescheduled following District confirmation, the District must be notified in writing at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance. If testing is cancelled within twenty-four (24) hours of a scheduled test date/time, the District may charge for additional test time. Please note that testing performed without prior notification to the District may not be accepted.

Testing

Note that Phase I bulk gasoline deliveries shall not occur for at least three (3) hours prior to the static pressure (decay) test and no gasoline dispensing shall occur within thirty (30) minutes prior to testing.  In addition, V/L ratio tests shall not be conducted within the twenty-four (24) hour period prior to the decay test.

Please refer to the following for ullage (vapor volume) requirements:

• Underground storage tanks:  TP-201.3 (Min: less of 25% or 1,000 gal.; Max: 25,000 gal.)
• Above-ground storage tanks:  TP-206.3, VR-402 Exhibit G, or as described in the applicable Executive Order  (Min: greater of 25% or 300 gal.; Max: 75%)

Additionally, if the District is required to witness testing over multiple days due to equipment failure, failure of the facility to meet testing requirements or similar situations, additional charges for District time will be incurred. It is required that the technicians performing any tests shall have a current ICC certification for Vapor Recovery System Testing and Repair.

Reporting

Written test results should be submitted within fifteen (15) days after completion of each test by email to [email protected] or by mail to:

Air Pollution Control District
3433 Roberto Court
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Resources

Copies of application forms can be found on the District website and submitted electronically to [email protected].

CARB Vapor Recovery Program

Gasoline Service Station Industry Wide Technical Guidance Page

ICC Lookup Tool

Authority to Construct Applications for Modifications to a Gas Station

Many modifications to existing gasoline dispensing facilities require an application for an Authority to Construct. Like-for-like components are not typically exempt, as disconnection of vapor recovery system components requires corresponding testing to ensure the system remains leak-free and vapor-tight once reconnected and prior to operation of the station. Please first contact the District for replacements related to damages from drive-offs or similar occurrences.

The following are examples of projects that require an application with the District:

• Dispenser replacement
• Drop tube replacement
• In-Station Diagnostics (ISD) software upgrade
• Throughput limit increase or facility expansion (e.g. addition of dispensers)
• Under Dispenser Containment (UDC) replacement
• Modifications to or replacement of an underground storage tank
• Modifications or repairs to vapor recovery piping or vent piping
• Replacement or relocation of a pressure management system (clean air separator, vapor polisher, HIRT burner, ARID permeator)
• Temporary disconnection of vapor recovery components for maintenance (e.g. removal of a dispenser to access an under-dispenser component, electrical conduit, etc.)

Common maintenance that does not require an application but must comply with the associated CARB Executive Order:

• Replacement of a pressure/vacuum vent valve (PV cap)
• Replacement of hoses and nozzles
• Replacement of a spill bucket/rotatable adaptor

Copies of application forms can be found on the District Downloadable Forms page and submitted electronically to [email protected].
 

Gas Stations & Your Health

Since 2001, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has adopted a number of significant enhancements to gasoline dispensing facilities’ (GDF) vapor recovery systems. These efforts are necessary to ensure the continued effective operation of the vapor recovery systems during the transfer and dispensing of gasoline at stations as well as ensure the health of our community. 

Although California has the most advanced and health protective pumping stations in the country, gas stations and how we pump our gas can still pose a hazard to our health. Making small changes in how you do something as simple as pumping gas into your car can have a major impact on your wallet and our air quality.

Want more information on how you can save money and our air? Click here to see our "Clean Air Starts at the Nozzle" brochure!