Empty basement corner after a heating oil tank was removed

Oil Tank Removal on the North Shore

Once you stop burning oil, the tank becomes a liability. In Massachusetts, removing or abandoning a heating oil tank requires a permit from your local fire department, and underground tanks must be checked for contamination. We connect you with independent local contractors who handle tank removal.

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Good fit if...

You converted to a heat pump or gas and no longer use oil
Your basement or underground tank is old or rusting
You are selling and the buyer or insurer is asking about the tank
You smell oil in the basement
Your insurer has asked about the tank's age

How an install goes

Fire department permit. The contractor obtains a tank removal permit (form FP-292) from your local fire department.
Pump out and clean. Remaining oil and sludge are pumped out and the tank is cleaned.
Remove. The tank is cut or removed and taken away for proper disposal.
Check for contamination. For underground tanks, MassDEP guidance covers checking for contamination at closure, and a release may need to be reported.

Why a heat pump is worth a look

Efficiency, comfort and safety, with rebates that depend on your utility.

2 to 3 times as efficient
Mass Save says cold-climate heat pumps are 2 to 3 times as efficient as a boiler or furnace, and many heat efficiently down to -15°F.(Mass Save: Heat pump rebates)
No combustion, no stored fuel
Heat pumps do not burn fuel in the home, so there is no in-home fuel storage and no carbon monoxide from the heating system.(Mass Save: Heat pump rebates)
Heating and cooling in one
The same system provides air conditioning in summer.(Mass Save: Heat pump rebates)
Local rebates differ by town
Wakefield (WMGLD), Reading-area towns (RMLD) and Peabody (PMLP) have municipal utilities with their own heat pump rebates. Most other North Shore towns are served by Mass Save sponsors.(WMGLD (Wakefield): Heat pump rebate, RMLD: Heat pump rebate or 0% interest loan, Peabody Municipal Light Plant: 2026 heat pump rebate program)

Further reading: Mass Save: Heat pump rebates · WMGLD (Wakefield): Heat pump rebate · RMLD: Heat pump rebate or 0% interest loan · Peabody Municipal Light Plant: 2026 heat pump rebate program

Every job is different. The pro you speak with will explain their own approach and pricing. North Shore Heat Pump Pros does not perform, supervise, or guarantee any work.

Oil Tank Removal by town

Homeowner guides

Removing a Heating Oil Tank in Massachusetts After a Conversion

Heat pump FAQ

Can an underground tank be left in place?

Only with fire department approval. Abandonment in place has its own requirements.

What if there is a leak?

Certain releases must be reported to MassDEP. MassDEP guidance explains what to do.

Who removes the tank?

Independent contractors who handle tank removal. We are not a contractor; we connect you with independent local pros.

Does RMLD allow Mass Save heat pump rebates?

RMLD says its heat pump rebate cannot be combined with Mass Save heat pump rebates, though RMLD customers may still be eligible for some Mass Save gas-specific rebates.

Is there a special electric rate for heat pumps?

Mass Save describes a seasonal heat pump rate offered by participating utilities. Municipal utilities set their own rates; ask yours.