A plain-language orientation to vapor-recovery systems at vehicle-fueling sites
What This Topic Covers
The general subject of capturing gasoline vapors that would otherwise escape at vehicle-fueling sites
Stage I vapor recovery: returning vapors to the delivery truck while a storage tank is filled
Stage II vapor recovery: capturing vapors at the nozzle while a vehicle is refueled (whether it applies varies by state)
How this area relates to — but does not replace — air-quality and fire-safety requirements
Why It Matters
Gasoline vapors contain volatile organic compounds that contribute to air pollution
Capturing vapors reduces emissions and fuel loss at fueling sites
Working vapor-recovery equipment is required by many air-quality programs
Who Uses It
Owners and operators of gasoline-dispensing facilities
Installers and service contractors setting up vapor-recovery equipment
Air-quality and fire inspectors evaluating a site
Regulatory Context
Vapor recovery is driven primarily by air-quality rules under the Clean Air Act and state or local air districts
Requirements — including whether Stage II applies — vary significantly by state and locality
Industry recommended practices offer guidance on installing and testing these systems
Get the Full Standard
The complete Recommended Practice is published by PEI
It is a copyrighted document available for purchase
USTex Guide is independent and does not redistribute its contents
USTex Guide is an independent educational resource. It is not affiliated with, authored by, or endorsed by the Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI). This page is an original plain-language overview for educational purposes only and does not reproduce the text, tables, figures, or procedures of any PEI Recommended Practice. PEI Recommended Practices are copyrighted works available for purchase at pei.org. Always consult the current published standard and your state regulator for specific compliance requirements.