Pipeline Firm Fined Over 40,000-Gallon Gasoline Spill in California

The EPA fined pipeline operator SFPP $213,560 for a 40,000-gallon gasoline spill in Walnut Creek, Calif., ordering continued cleanup under a settlement resolving Clean Water Act violations.

(P&GJ) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reached a settlement with SFPP, L.P. over a gasoline spill that released more than 40,000 gallons into the environment in Walnut Creek, California.

Under the agreement, announced Sept. 23, the company will pay a $213,560 penalty and continue cleanup efforts in coordination with the Regional Water Quality Control Board.

“Pipeline operators must be held accountable when they discharge gasoline into our environment,” said Amy Miller, director of enforcement and compliance assurance for EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. “This enforcement action sends a clear message: companies must properly operate and maintain their pipelines to prevent spills. EPA takes seriously the responsibility to protect our waters and communities from petroleum discharges.”

EPA alleged the spill violated the Clean Water Act, which requires petroleum transporters to maintain and operate their systems to prevent releases. Cleanup work remains ongoing to address contamination from the incident.