Managing Above-Ground Storage Tank Risks at Golf Courses and Country Clubs

Golf courses and country clubs rely on above-ground storage tanks (ASTs) to power and maintain their facilities. From fueling maintenance vehicles to storing water, fertilizers and cleaning agents, these tanks are essential to daily operations. However, when not properly managed, ASTs can create serious safety, environmental and regulatory risks that threaten staff, property and the surrounding community.

Why Storage Tanks Matter

ASTs provide an efficient and accessible way to store the materials that keep courses running smoothly. Fuel, oils, fertilizers and water are all commonly housed in these tanks to support maintenance teams, irrigation systems and hospitality operations. Yet, their convenience comes with exposure. A single leak or spill can contaminate soil and groundwater, cause fire or explosion hazards and result in fines or penalties under federal and state regulations.

Golf courses and country clubs face additional pressure due to their locations near residential areas and sensitive ecosystems. Many facilities operate in regions governed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state-level Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) programs that enforce strict storage, inspection and reporting requirements.

Common Hazards and Compliance Risks

The most common threats tied to ASTs stem from corrosion, mechanical failure, overfilling and improper containment. Even small releases of fuel or pesticide concentrate can lead to thousands of dollars in cleanup costs and reputational damage. Other hazards include:

• Environmental contamination: Leaks or spills can pollute soil and water sources, harming wildlife and creating long-term remediation liabilities.
• Fire and explosion risks: Tanks holding fuels or flammable liquids are vulnerable to ignition if vapors accumulate near ignition sources.
• Structural failure: Without routine maintenance, tanks can corrode, crack or collapse, releasing hazardous substances suddenly and unpredictably.
• Regulatory noncompliance: Failing to maintain secondary containment, conduct inspections or document repairs can trigger penalties under EPA’s Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) rule.

For clubs operating near water features or using chemicals for turf care, even minor releases can have outsized effects. Regulators increasingly hold property owners responsible for remediation even when third-party contractors contribute to the incident.

Best Practices for Safe AST Management

A proactive approach to tank management can dramatically reduce exposure. Clubs should develop an inspection and maintenance program that aligns with EPA and state guidelines. Tanks should be installed on stable, impermeable foundations located away from flood-prone areas and surrounded by containment barriers or berms that prevent spills from spreading.

Routine inspections for corrosion, leaks and structural integrity are essential. Maintenance records should include the date of inspection, observed issues, repairs made and verification by a qualified professional. Clear labeling of tank contents and hazard warnings helps reduce confusion and strengthens emergency response readiness.

Equally important is employee training. Staff who handle fuel or chemicals must understand safe transfer procedures, emergency shutdown processes and how to use personal protective equipment. Annual refreshers reinforce accountability and keep safety practices consistent across departments.

Financial and Liability Protection

Even with strong management programs, accidents can happen. That’s why pollution liability and general liability insurance play such an important role in protecting golf courses and country clubs. Traditional property or CGL policies often exclude pollution-related incidents. Pollution liability coverage helps pay for cleanup costs, environmental testing, legal defense and third-party damages following a release.

Partnering with a broker who understands the golf and country club industry ensures your coverage reflects the complexity of your operation—from storage tanks and chemical use to environmental compliance. Alliant’s specialists help identify coverage gaps, improve risk management programs and align insurance strategies with regulatory requirements.

Effective AST management is more than just compliance. It’s a commitment to safety, environmental stewardship and operational continuity. By implementing preventive maintenance, thorough training and strategic insurance protection, golf courses and country clubs can safeguard their property, their people and their reputation.

Contact Alliant today to strengthen your environmental risk strategy and protect your club from costly storage tank exposures.