Where can I legally install an oil tank in my garden

In many rural areas of the UK, heating oil tanks are a common way of heating homes. In basic terms, heating oil tanks are storage containers designed to hold a supply of heating oil. This oil is then used to fuel heating systems in homes and businesses.

Heating oil tanks, which come in various sizes, are usually kept in gardens or designated outdoor areas. The tank’s location is crucial for easy accessibility during refills and routine maintenance. There are regulations around where oil tanks can be legally installed in gardens. With the right knowledge, getting it right is totally manageable – so let’s discuss.

Why does location matter?

Oil tank installation regulations are put in place for a reason. They protect you and your home from the risk of fires and environmental damage. A leaking or poorly located tank can pose a real risk to soil, plants and water sources. It’s especially important to consider these aspects if you have children or pets playing in the garden, or if your outdoor space is a haven for wildlife.

Not only that, but convenience is a factor as a tank needs to be easily accessible for maintenance. In short, getting the location right from the start leads to fewer problems down the line and a safer, more secure garden space overall.

So, what are the regulations?

Your oil tank must be located at a safe distance from your house. Standard guidelines are typically as follows:

• At least 1.8 metres from non-fire-rated structures (e.g. sheds and fences)
• At least 0.76 metres from non-combustible structures (e.g. brick walls)
• At least 1.8 metres from openings like doors or windows

It’s important to keep your tank away from drains, water sources or flood-prone areas. This is because, should your oil tank leak, it can cause contamination. The tank should also be installed in a location that allows proper ventilation to avoid the buildup of flammable vapours and kept away from naked flames, electrical equipment and other ignition sources. If the tank cannot meet the minimum safe distances, use fire-resistant barriers between the tank and nearby structures.

Lastly, you may be required to have a bunded oil tank, rather than a single skin. A single skin tank has just one layer to hold the oil, while a bunded tank has two. In many cases, bunded oil tanks are legally required. UK regulations state that you must have a bunded tank if your oil tank holds more than 2,500 litres or is installed near water sources, drains or areas where a leak could cause harm.

Do you need planning permission for a heating oil tank?

In most cases, you don’t need planning permission for a heating oil tank. However, there are exceptions to this rule. If your home is listed, within a conservation area or subject to special planning restrictions, you may need to apply for permission before installing the tank. That said, always check with your local planning authority to be on the safe side!

Heating oil tank installation no-gos

Hopefully, by now, you have a good understanding of where to safely locate a heating oil tank. Before you go ahead, let’s cover a few of the common mistakes to avoid.

Firstly, avoid installing your tank too close to a fence or a window. This would not comply with the rules around minimum distances. This could not only create safety issues but may also lead to costly adjustments later if your installation doesn’t meet regulations.

Secondly, don’t forget to check the ground stability before installing your tank. It needs a solid and level base to sit on, ideally made from concrete or paving slabs to support its weight and keep it stable. If the ground isn’t stable enough, there’s a chance the tank might shift or sink over time. This could lead to leaks or uneven pressure on the pipework.

We mentioned this previously, but just to reiterate – make sure your tank is accessible for inspection and maintenance. This means leaving enough room to maneuver around it. 

Heating oil tanks are a practical solution for many homeowners, especially those living off the gas grid. But it’s so important that legal guidelines are followed when installing them safely. Thankfully, they’re pretty straightforward, and with a little bit of research, it’s not difficult to getthem  right. If you’re unsure of anything, however, visit https://oftec.org/ or contact them for professional advice and guidance.