Florida law bans open oil drums stored outside.
Most American states require oil drums to be stored in a certain way to avoid spills that can soil the environment. Whether you're storing used or new oil in drums on your Florida property or business--either inside or outside--there's a certain way it must be done. If you don't follow the guidelines, depending on the size of your operation, you could face fines and sanctions.
Considerations
As of Jan. 4, 2009, Florida law requires an annual permit for anyone storing barrels of oil at a processing plant, sales point, burning facility or transport operation--whether that storage takes place inside or outside. Those who store oil in drums in small quantities--like mechanics shops which store used oil in drums until full, at which point a recycling service is employed to drain the drums--are required to store that fluid in labeled, unleaking drums in good condition.
All Drums
According to Florida law, a standard barrel can contain 42 gallons of oil. The drums must be maintained in a proper way, too: Oil can't be stored in drums that are not properly labeled as containing "Used Oil," or simply "Oil," in the case of a new product. The drums must be free of rust, damage or holes.
Drums Outside
If a drum of oil is stored outside, it must be closed or covered, adding protection from the weather. This is to prevent unnecessary spillage or overflow during heavy rain storms. Also, drums that are not double-walled must be kept on a concrete or asphalt surface, providing a seal from soil exposure.
Oil Disposal
Any oil stored in drums must be disposed of through a licensed recycling service. This includes old oil filters. It is not legal to dispose of used oil or filters at a Florida landfill, as well as into Florida soil, sewers, septic tanks or natural water system. The state requires that these wastes be disposed of at licensed and monitored facilities.
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