UST Inspection Log Center

EPA 40 CFR 280.35 & 280.36 — Monthly & Annual Compliance Checklists

Generate digitally-signed inspection logs for your underground storage tank (UST) system. Fill out the checklist on any device, download a professionally formatted PDF, and keep your compliance records up to date — at no cost.

Monthly walkthroughs — every 30 days (§280.36)Annual inspections — once per year (§280.35)PDF export — print-ready for your compliance binderMeets EPA Class A/B operator requirements
Every 30 days
Monthly Inspection Log

EPA 40 CFR 280.36 walkthrough checklist. Covers sensors, spill buckets, overfill protection, ATG console, and dispenser area. Sign and export a PDF in minutes.

  • Interstitial sensor & float switch inspection
  • Spill bucket and sump check — no product or liquid
  • Overfill protection device function verification
  • Dispenser area visual leak inspection
  • ATG console alarm status reviewed
  • Shear valve and emergency shut-off inspection
  • Operator log entries signed and dated
Once per year
Annual Inspection Log

EPA 40 CFR 280.35 comprehensive annual inspection. Covers cathodic protection testing, spill bucket integrity, overfill prevention, and release detection equipment — with licensed technician sign-off.

  • Cathodic protection system test (rectifier output & anode continuity)
  • Spill bucket integrity test — hydrostatic or vacuum
  • Overfill prevention device full operational test
  • Release detection equipment calibration verification
  • Emergency vent and normal vent inspection
  • Flexible connector / piping visual & tightness check
  • Financial responsibility documentation current
  • Class A/B operator designation records verified

Why UST Inspection Logs Are Required

Federal EPA Mandate

40 CFR Part 280 requires documented monthly walkthroughs (§280.36) and annual inspections (§280.35) for every active UST system in the United States. Operators must retain signed records for a minimum of three years — many states require five to ten.

Enforcement & Penalties

Failure to conduct or document inspections is one of the top three violations cited in EPA and state UST compliance audits. Penalties typically start at $10,000 per day per tank and can trigger Red Tag operating restrictions until documentation is corrected.

Class A/B Operator Duty

The 2015 EPA UST operator training rule requires every facility to designate Class A and Class B operators. Class B operators are responsible for performing and signing monthly inspections. These logs provide the required paper trail for operator accountability.

Inspection Frequency Quick Reference

Inspection TypeCFR CitationFrequencyWho SignsRetention
Monthly Walkthrough40 CFR 280.36Every 30 daysClass B Operator3 years min.
Annual Inspection40 CFR 280.35Once per yearLicensed Technician3 years min.
Cathodic Protection40 CFR 280.31Every 3 years (impressed current: 60 days)Qualified Tester3 years min.
Release Detection40 CFR 280.43–45Monthly / ContinuousClass B Operator1–3 years

Frequently Asked Questions

EPA 40 CFR 280.36 requires a walkthrough inspection of each UST system every 30 days. Many states have adopted this rule directly, and some require more frequent checks — always verify with your state agency.
40 CFR 280.36 governs monthly walkthroughs covering sensors, spill buckets, and overfill devices. 40 CFR 280.35 governs annual inspections covering cathodic protection tests, spill bucket integrity tests, and release detection equipment — a more comprehensive review requiring a licensed technician in most states.
Yes. EPA requires records to be kept for at least three years and be immediately available for inspection by the regulator. Many states require five to ten years. These digital logs generate a PDF you can print and store in your on-site compliance binder.
The designated Class A or Class B operator must review and sign monthly inspection records. In most states, the Class B operator (on-site manager) is responsible for the monthly walkthrough.
Yes — as long as you generate and retain a printable record. The PDF produced by this tool meets that requirement. Some states have specific form templates; check your state's UST agency page on our State Forms directory to confirm.
Missing a required inspection creates a documented compliance gap. If discovered during an inspection, it can result in a Notice of Violation, fines (often $10,000+ per day per tank), and in some states, a Red Tag / operating restriction until the gap is corrected and documented.

Related Compliance Tools

2026 Compliance HubState Enforcement MapPFAS Resource HubCalculatorsState Forms DirectoryTechnical Library