Stage I Vapor Recovery Program
The Stage I Vapor Recovery Program controls vapor emissions from gasoline marketing operations such as gasoline dispensing facilities or service stations during fuel deliveries. The Stage I program regulates gasoline refueling operations for Underground Storage Tanks and Aboveground Storage Tanks.
Note: Only Stage I Vapor Recovery Systems approved by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) are allowable in Rhode Island.
RIDEM Office of Air Resources – Air Pollution Control Regulation No. 11 "Petroleum Liquids Marketing and Storage"
The purpose of this regulation is to regulate the storage and marketing of petroleum liquids to minimize emissions of volatile organic compounds.
RIDEM Underground Storage Tank (UST) Management Program
Since many of the gasoline dispensing facilities regulated by Office of Air Resources have Underground Storage Tanks, they are also regulated by the Underground Storage Tank Management Program. Both programs work together in this field, however the owner/operator of a gasoline dispensing facility is responsible for knowing and complying with regulations and requirements of both programs.
RIDEM Aboveground Storage Tank (AST) Program
Aboveground storage tanks that are regulated by Office of Air Resources are also regulated by DEM's Office of Emergency Response, Aboveground Storage Tank program (“AST”). Both programs work together in this field, however the owner/operator of an AST is responsible for knowing and complying with regulations and requirements of both programs.
Program News & Updates
- October Letter
- 250-RICR-120-05-11, 11.9.2.(F)(5) states, "On and after December 25, 2020, gasoline dispensing systems must be equipped with a CARB-certified EVR Stage I vapor control system or a Stage I vapor control system composed of EVR components"