What is the owner's responsibility regarding underground fuel tanks?

An owner is responsible for removal of underground fuel tanks if the tank is leaking due to potential environmental hazards and health risks. In Massachusetts, as in many other states, regulations require that leaking underground tanks be addressed promptly to prevent soil and groundwater contamination. If a tank is found to be leaking, the owner has a legal obligation to take appropriate measures for its removal and to mitigate any potential damage caused by the leakage.

In contrast, while notifying local authorities might be necessary in certain situations, it is not the primary responsibility regarding leaking tanks. Additionally, there is a distinction between tanks that are operational and those that are no longer in use; immediate removal is not mandated unless there is a leak or other regulatory requirement. Lastly, stating that the owner is not responsible for any repairs contradicts the legal obligations that come with ownership of such potentially hazardous materials.