District of Columbia
SPCC Plan Certification
Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure plans certified by a professional engineer for facilities storing oil.
What the work involves
EPA's SPCC rule requires facilities with aboveground oil storage over 1,320 gallons (counting containers of 55 gallons or more) that could reasonably discharge to navigable waters to prepare and implement a spill plan. Most plans must be reviewed and certified by a licensed professional engineer, though some smaller qualified facilities may self-certify. Plans cover containment, inspections, training and response.
Local conditions we plan for
- Riverine flooding (Potomac and Anacostia) and urban stormwater
- Combined sewer infrastructure
- Dense urban sites with historic structures
- High groundwater near rivers
Building code: 2015 IBC/IRC listed as adopted district wide, as amended by the DC Construction Codes (ICC adoption chart, April 2026).
When you need it
- Aboveground oil storage over 1,320 gallons
- Farms, fleets, construction yards, utilities
- Five-year plan review due
- Changes to tanks or containment
Frequently asked questions
How much does sPCC Plan Certification cost?
Across the US, sPCC Plan Certification usually costs $1,500 to $10,000 per facility. Estimate. Small farm or fleet plans are at the low end; multi-tank industrial facilities cost more.
How long does sPCC Plan Certification take?
Plan on 2 to 6 weeks from signed proposal to stamped deliverables, longer if a site visit, soil testing or a permit review cycle is involved.
Is a permit required for sPCC Plan Certification?
Often not on its own, but the findings frequently lead to work that does need a permit. We tell you which parts of the follow-up work your local building department will review, and can prepare those drawings too.
How do I verify an engineer's license in District of Columbia?
Engineers practicing in District of Columbia are licensed by the District of Columbia Board of Professional Engineers. You can confirm a license number and its status in the board's public license search before you sign a contract.
Which building code applies in District of Columbia?
2015 IBC/IRC listed as adopted district wide, as amended by the DC Construction Codes (ICC adoption chart, April 2026). Cities and counties can add local amendments, which is one reason to hire an engineer who works in your area.
What site problems do engineers see most in District of Columbia?
Common issues include riverine flooding (Potomac and Anacostia) and urban stormwater, combined sewer infrastructure, dense urban sites with historic structures and high groundwater near rivers.