Oil Storage Regulations 2026: Do I Need a Bunded Tank?

Do I need a bunded oil tank?

For most UK businesses and many homes, bunded tanks are generally required under current regulations and guidance. Under the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001 and related Environment Agency guidance, you will generally require a bunded tank if you fall into any of these categories (note that rules vary slightly between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, with higher thresholds often applying to farms):

• Commercial Businesses: If you store more than 200 litres of oil above ground at a workplace.
• Farms & Agriculture: If you store more than 1,500 litres of oil for agricultural use (under specific agricultural rules).
• Domestic Homes: If you store more than 3,500 litres of heating oil. However, even if your tank is smaller (e.g., 1,000–2,500 litres), you must have a bunded tank if a "Risk Assessment" shows you are close to water sources.

Tip: Installing a bunded tank is the easiest way to ensure instant compliance and avoid fines.

What is the "10 Metre Rule" for oil tanks?

The "10 Metre Rule" is the most common reason single-skin tanks fail inspection. You will generally require a bunded tank (secondary containment) if your oil storage is located:

• Within 10 metres of inland fresh water (such as a river, stream, ditch, or lake).
• Within 10 metres of coastal waters.
• Within 50 metres of a potable water source (like a well, spring, or borehole).
• Where oil spills could run over hard ground (like a driveway) to reach a drain or manhole cover.

If any of these apply, a single-skin tank will normally be regarded as non-compliant, and you should use a bunded tank to meet current regulations and avoid enforcement action.

How close can a bunded tank be to my house or boundary?

To comply with Building Regulations (Part J) regarding fire safety, your oil tank must be positioned at safe distances to prevent a fire from spreading to the stored fuel.

• 1.8 metres away from non-fire-rated building openings (windows, doors) or eaves.
• 1.8 metres away from the boiler flue terminals.
• 760mm away from non-fire-rated boundaries (like wooden fences).
• 600mm away from screening (like trellis) that does not form part of the boundary.

Can't meet these distances? You don't necessarily need to move the tank. You can install a fire protection barrier with a minimum 30-minute fire rating between the tank and the hazard.

Does my bund really need to hold 110% of the tank's capacity?

Yes. The regulations strictly state that the secondary containment (the bund) must be able to hold 110% of the inner tank's capacity.

Why the extra 10%? This safety margin is calculated to accommodate the full contents of the tank plus any overfill, water ingress that might accumulate in the bund during a catastrophic failure or weather event.

Plastic vs. Steel Bunded Tanks: Which is better for compliance?

Both plastic and steel bunded tanks are fully compliant with UK regulations as long as they meet the correct manufacturing standards (such as CE/UKCA marking and relevant British Standards). The choice depends on your site requirements:​

• Plastic Bunded Tanks: Best for domestic heating oil. They are rot-proof, seamless (reducing leak risks), and require very little maintenance. Look for OFTEC-approved tanks. standard.
• Steel Bunded Tanks: Best for commercial sites, farms, or high-theft areas. They offer superior impact resistance and security (harder to drill). Look for tanks complying with standards like BS 799-5.​ standard.

All steel tanks sold by us are built to BS 799-5 and come with a 20 year structural guarantee. Our tanks are manufactured by us here in our Lancashire facility

Important Caveat: This information is for guidance only and is based on current regulations and industry standards as of December 2025. It is not legal advice or a substitute for professional consultation. Always check official government sources (e.g., Gov) conduct a site-specific risk assessment, and consult a qualified installer or local authority for your exact circumstances, as rules differ by location and use.