In the private sector, permits for the storage and handling of substances hazardous to water are usually limited to the storage of heating oil. Heating oil is a water-polluting substance of water hazard class 2.

Special requirements are therefore imposed on the storage of heating oil.

In principle, the systems must be designed and operated in such a way that substances hazardous to water cannot escape. They must be tight, stable and sufficiently resistant to the expected mechanical, thermal and chemical influences.

The storage of heating oil must be notified to the lower water authority using a form (above-ground heating oil storage facilities with a storage volume < 1000 liters outside of flood areas are exempt from the notification requirement). If the relevant requirements are met, a decision will be made by the water authority.

After installation and before commissioning, the system must be inspected by an authorized expert in accordance with §  47 of the Plant Ordinance (AwSV). A list of experts is available from the lower water authority. The plant operator is generally responsible for the timely inspection of the plant.