State funds available for removal of storage tanks

Owners of properties with underground storage tanks that need removal or replacement may be eligible for financial assistance from the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

The DEP operates a grant and loan program, which is available to both commercial and residential applicants who own regulated or nonregulated underground storage, tanks.

The Underground Storage Tank Fund provides funding to homeowners or business owners who are considering removal or replacement of nonleaking heating oil and leaking underground storage tanks.

Financial assistance is also available to public entities, nonprofit groups, volunteer fire, ambulance, first-aid, emergency or rescue companies and independent institutions of higher education.

For information about the nonleaking, unregulated underground storage tank grant program, call the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) at (609) 777-4898 or visit www.njeda.com. To learn more about the grant and loan program for leaking regulated and nonregulated underground storage tanks, call the DEP at (609) 777-0101 or visit www.nj.gov/dep/srp/finance/ustfund.