Oil Tank Removal Costs in Austin
The most common question we hear from homeowners in Austin is: how much is this going to cost? The honest answer is that it depends on several factors — but for a standard residential removal with no contamination, the cost is predictable and manageable.
Standard Removal: $1,500–$3,500
A straightforward residential underground oil tank removal in Austin — where the tank is accessible, not under a structure, and the soil test comes back clean — typically costs between $1,500 and $3,500. This price includes:
- All permit applications and municipal fees.
- Excavation and tank removal using a rubber-tracked mini excavator to minimise yard damage.
- Pumping and disposal of any residual oil.
- Soil sampling and state-certified laboratory analysis.
- Backfilling with certified clean fill.
- Closure report filed with Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
Factors That Increase the Cost
Several site conditions can increase the cost above the standard range:
- Tank under a structure: If the tank is under a concrete driveway, patio, or deck, demolition and restoration add $500–$2,000 to the project.
- Proximity to the foundation: Tanks within 2 feet of the house foundation require additional shoring and careful excavation, adding $500–$1,500.
- Large tank size: Tanks over 1,000 gallons require more excavation and disposal capacity.
- Contaminated soil: If soil testing reveals petroleum contamination, the cost of excavating and disposing of contaminated soil adds significantly to the project — see below.
If Contamination Is Found: $10,000–$90,000+
This is the number that concerns most homeowners. If soil testing reveals petroleum contamination above TX's regulatory action levels, a remediation plan must be developed and implemented. Costs depend entirely on the extent of the release:
- Simple cleanup (small volume of contaminated soil, no groundwater impact): $10,000–$30,000.
- Moderate cleanup (larger soil volume, possible groundwater monitoring): $30,000–$60,000.
- Complex cleanup (groundwater impact, extended monitoring, qualified environmental professional or Texas-licensed Professional Engineer (PE) oversight): $60,000–$90,000+.
Texas Petroleum Storage Tank Remediation (PSTR) Fund may provide financial assistance for eligible residential properties. We can advise on eligibility at the initial assessment.
Get a Written Estimate Before Any Work Begins
Oil Tank Removal Austin, TX provides a free written estimate before any work begins in Austin. Call (737) 306-1363 to schedule your assessment.