While state and local agencies also regulate the environment, the key federal agency responsible for liquid terminal facility environmental regulations is:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
All terminals are subject to regulation by the EPA, including its 10 regional offices. EPA regulates air and water quality around facilities under the Clean Air and Clean Water acts and the proper handling and disposal of waste. Some of these programs are delegated to and enforced at the state level. EPA administers other programs that affect terminal operations, including several related to spill prevention, mitigation and risk management if a terminal handles certain chemicals or hazardous substances.
Key rules include:
- Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure Rule
- Facility Response Plan Rule
- Risk Management Plan Rule