Understanding Oil Tanks: A Guide for Homeowners in Burnaby and the Tri-Cities

If you own a home in Burnaby, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, or Port Moody, you are living in some of the most established and beautiful communities in the Lower Mainland. Many of these homes, particularly those built between the 1920s and 1970s, were originally heated by oil stored in underground storage tanks (USTs).

While most houses switched to natural gas decades ago, some of those old steel tanks were left behind. Here is what you need to know about managing them responsibly in 2026.

1. Know the Local Rules

Regulations for removing an abandoned oil tank vary depending on where you live.

Burnaby

: You must obtain a permit from the city before removing a tank. As of 2026, the permit fee is approximately $54.00 per tank for residential properties. A final report including photos and disposal receipts must be submitted to the City to close the permit.

Coquitlam

: While the city provides guidelines for removal, they generally do not require a separate permit for residential UST removal. However, you must notify Coquitlam Fire/Rescue in writing and provide a site plan before work begins.

Port Moody & Port Coquitlam: These cities typically do not require a municipal permit for removal, but homeowners must still comply with the BC Fire Code, which mandates that any tank out of service for more than two years be removed.

2. Telltale Signs of a Hidden Tank

If you aren't sure if your property has one, look for these visual clues around your yard and foundation:

• Filler Pipes: Small metal caps (about 3 inches wide) sticking out of the ground.

• Vent Pipes: Narrow pipes (about 2 inches wide) often attached to the side of the house with a "mushroom" cap.

• Feeder Lines: Small copper tubes in the basement or utility room that look pinched off or "crimped".

• Unusual Depressions: Sinking patches in the lawn could indicate a deteriorating tank beneath the surface.

3. Why Take Action?

Dealing with a tank is much more affordable than dealing with a leak.

• Real Estate & Insurance: Most insurance companies in 2026 will not renew a policy if an underground tank is present. Similarly, buyers and banks often require a "clean" scan before a sale can proceed.

• Environmental Protection: Removing a dry tank is a routine job. If a tank begins to leak, it can contaminate soil and even migrate to a neighbor's property, which significantly increases remediation costs.

• Peace of Mind: For about $3,000 to $5,000, most standard residential tanks can be professionally removed and the site certified clean, adding permanent value to your home.

4. Next Steps for Homeowners

If you suspect you have a tank, the best first step is a non-invasive scan. Professional companies use Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to find tanks without any digging.

• Consult the Experts: Find a licensed contractor familiar with your specific city’s requirements.

• Check City Websites: For more details, use the City of Burnaby's Permit Portal or Coquitlam’s Fire Prevention Services.