Oil tanks can represent a hazard to the local environment and a significant financial liability for you if they leak or spill. Cleanup costs for oil tank leaks are the responsibility of the homeowner, and your private home insurance likely does not cover these costs. Check with your local government whether they require you to obtain a permit for removing your oil tank. Whether or not a permit is required, in order to access the CleanBC Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Program you must:

  • Remove and dispose of your oil heating equipment in accordance with all relevant regulations, including the BC Fire Code.
  • Provide required documentation.

Your private house insurance provider may also require oil tank removal documentation, which may be different than what the CleanBC Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Program requires. Please check directly with your insurance company before removing your oil tank. Similarly, if removal of an oil tank is a condition of sale for your home, please also ensure you have adequate documentation for those purposes, which may be different than the documentation requirements for this rebate program.

The person that removes your oil tank can be a local contractor or handyperson, however it is important to ensure that it is done safely, and with the appropriate permit if required. If you are located within the Capital Regional District, visit their website to learn how to safely dispose of your oil tank.

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