Where Should a Bunded Oil Tank Be Installed? UK Regulations & Best Practice

Correctly positioning a bunded oil tank is one of the most important steps in ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient heating oil storage. Whether you’re installing a new tank or replacing an existing one, UK oil tank regulations set clear rules on distances, location, and ground preparation to reduce environmental risk and protect your property.

In this guide, we explain where a bunded oil tank can be installed, the key OFTEC and government regulations, and practical considerations to help you avoid costly mistakes.

UK Regulations for Bunded Oil Tank Placement

Oil tank positioning in the UK is governed by Building Regulations, Environmental Protection rules, and OFTEC guidance. Failing to follow these can invalidate insurance and lead to enforcement action.

Minimum Distance Requirements

According to UK guidance, your bunded oil tank must be positioned:

• At least 1.8 metres from buildings, boundaries, non-fire-rated structures, and openings such as doors or windows

• At least 10 metres from watercourses, including rivers, streams, ponds, and drains

• At least 50 metres from wells or boreholes

These distances are designed to reduce fire risk and prevent fuel contamination in the event of a leak.

Official OFTEC guidance on domestic oil storage up to 3,500 litres can be found here:
https://www.oftec.org/consumers/off-gas-grid-guides/home-guide-to-domestic-liquid-fuel-storage-up-to-3500-litres

Government Guidance on Oil Tank Location

The UK Government also provides clear direction on where oil tanks should be positioned to minimise environmental risk.

Key recommendations include:

• Avoid installing tanks where spills could run downhill toward drains or water sources

• Keep tanks visible and accessible for inspection

• Ensure there is enough clearance for safe oil deliveries

You can read the full government guidance on oil storage and positioning here:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/storing-oil-at-a-home-or-business#where-to-position-your-container

Site-Specific Factors to Consider

Beyond legal distances, your property layout plays a major role in choosing the safest location.

Accessibility for Deliveries

Your tank must be easily accessible for tanker deliveries, with a clear and safe route for hoses. Poor access can lead to spill risks and delivery refusals.

Ground Conditions

Avoid soft or uneven ground. Sloping areas increase the risk of movement or oil migration during leaks.

Flood Risk Areas

If your property is in a flood-prone area, bunded tanks are essential and may need additional anchoring to prevent flotation.

The Importance of a Proper Base

A bunded oil tank must sit on a solid, level, and non-combustible base.

Best practice includes:

• A concrete or paving slab base

• Minimum thickness of 100mm

• Base extending at least 300mm beyond the tank footprint on all sides

A poor foundation can lead to tank movement, structural damage, and leaks over time.

Examples of Correct Bunded Oil Tank Placement

Installed at a safe distance from the house and boundary
Positioned downhill from buildings but uphill from watercourses
Sited on a reinforced concrete base
Fully accessible for inspection and oil delivery

These factors help ensure compliance, safety, and long-term durability.

Choosing the Right Bunded Oil Tank

Bunded tanks are now the preferred option for most UK installations, offering built-in secondary containment and improved environmental protection.

You can browse a wide range of compliant options here:
https://www.oiltanksupermarket.co.uk/product-category/bunded-oil-tanks/

If you’re comparing different oil storage solutions, explore the full oil tank range here:
https://www.oiltanksupermarket.co.uk/product-category/oil-tanks/

Final Thoughts: Why Proper Oil Tank Placement Matters

Correctly positioning your bunded oil tank isn’t just about meeting regulations — it’s about protecting your home, the environment, and your investment. By following OFTEC and government guidance, ensuring safe distances, and preparing a solid base, you reduce risk and ensure long-term peace of mind.

If you’re unsure about placement or tank selection, choosing a compliant bunded tank from a trusted supplier is the safest route forward.

Looking for the right oil tank?

Explore Oil Tank Supermarket’s full range of bunded oil tanks and accessories to find a solution that meets UK regulations and suits your property.