Used Oil Storage

Given the current situation regarding used oil, the Municipal Waste Advisory Council requested clarification from the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) on the storage of used oil.

A response was received from the DEC Licensing Unit in 2007 regarding Local Government storage of additional used oil onsite (available here).

With regards to the licenses for Council operated landfill and transfer stations, no amendments are necessary should the storage of waste oil be less than 10,000L per annum and for a period of less than 12 months. However, this is provided that the waste oil is stored in accordance with the Department of Water: Water Quality Protection Guidelines No. 10 - 'Mining and Mineral Processing: Above-ground fuel and chemical storage, 2000' namely Parts 6.1 - 6.3 and 6.6. This is available here or from the Department of Waters website.

The DEC has reviewed this information, and has advised that this information has not formally changed as of February 2010. Further enquiries should be directed to your local DEC Regional Office (contact list can be accessed here) or to Marko Pasalich, A/Program Manager, Swan Regional Office on 9333 7528.

The Dangerous Goods Branch (part of the Resources Safety Division of the Department of Environment of Consumer Protection and Employment Protection) has prepared a fact sheet (available here) for Local Government to assist with the safe storage of used oil. For more information on the fact sheet contact Patrick Senycia from DOCEP on 9222 3135