Running a commercial fleet takes careful planning, and reliable fuel is at the center of it all. Keeping your vehicles fueled is only part of the job, though. Your fleet managers also need to know and follow the rules that govern on-road and off-road diesel fuel. Staying compliant helps you avoid costly fines, reduce legal risks, and keep your operation running without unnecessary disruptions.
Here are a few things you need to keep in mind.
Understanding the difference between on-road and off-road diesel, and the rules that apply to each, is a basic part of fleet fueling management. On-road diesel, or “clear diesel,” is used for vehicles operating on public highways and is subject to state and federal fuel taxes.
Off-road diesel, or “dyed diesel,” is reserved for equipment like construction machinery, agricultural vehicles, and generators. It is dyed red to distinguish it and help ensure it’s used correctly.
Since it’s tax-exempt, off-road diesel use is strictly regulated. Using off-road diesel in on-road vehicles is illegal and can result in expensive penalties. To remain compliant, ensure that your team understands the difference and that your fleet is correctly categorized. Make sure you’re using fueling procedures to prevent cross-contamination between on- and off-road diesel supplies.
In New York, and most other states, fuel storage tanks are subject to strict environmental and safety standards to prevent fuel spills and leaks. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regulates bulk fuel storage tanks and requires regular inspections, proper labeling, and secondary containment systems to reduce the risk of contamination.
On Long Island, counties and towns often add specific permitting and zoning requirements for fueling operations. Suffolk County has its own Petroleum Bulk Storage Program, mirroring the state’s, but with added local inspections. Nassau County may require separate fire marshal approvals for fueling infrastructure, especially if tanks are located near residential or environmentally sensitive areas.
With decades of experience, you can count on Southville to help ensure your on-site fueling setup meets all regulations. To ensure compliance, we can help you register your tanks with the appropriate authorities and keep you up to date with inspection and maintenance schedules.
We will also ensure your fuel-dispensing equipment, including pumps, hoses, and other equipment, meets state and federal guidelines and is maintained to avoid costly breakdowns or accidents.
Your drivers and fueling staff play a critical role in maintaining compliance, especially when it comes to dispensing fuel to on- or off-road vehicles. Providing regular training ensures that everyone understands their responsibilities, from proper fueling procedures to how to respond in case of a spill.
Proper documentation is a cornerstone of regulatory compliance in fleet fueling. New York State requires detailed recordkeeping for fuel purchases, usage, and storage. These records must include:
Our services can make it easier to keep up with recordkeeping and tracking.
When it comes to convenient commercial fleet fueling services, Southville is the partner you’ve been looking for. Our experts can assess your needs and help you plan, schedule, and manage your fuel deliveries. We’ll also help you track your fuel usage to reduce waste and improve efficiency. And we can work with you to plan a fueling station at your business or job site.
We’re always here to take your call. Let us know how we can make doing business easier for you. Contact us for more information today.