What you can save
There is no upper limit to how much diesel and heating oil you as a private individual are allowed to store at home. However, both companies and private individuals who intend to store diesel and heating oil are subject to due diligence requirements (Section 5 of the Regulations on the handling of hazardous substances). However, it is worth noting that the regulations are somewhat different for private individuals and businesses. Agricultural properties, where diesel is often stored, are considered a business.
For you as a private individual, the requirement for due diligence in practice means that you must think through where and how you store the diesel, so that you prevent fires and other accidents.
Storage requirements
Diesel and heating oil can be stored outdoors, indoors and in outbuildings. Gasoline is considered to be extremely flammable and is subject to stricter restrictions. Diesel is not as flammable as petrol, but you should still prevent fires when storing diesel.
The container or tank you are using should be suitable for storing diesel or fuel oil. Make sure the storage space is tidy and do not store unnecessary flammable material nearby. Extinguishing equipment should be easily accessible.
If you are going to store diesel and heating oil outdoors, you should ensure at least 5 meters distance to wooden walls and other flammable materials. Barbecues, bonfires and other sources that can set fire to the diesel should also be kept at least 5 meters away.
Recommended minimum distances
- For wooden walls, flammable buildings or other flammable stored materials: 5 m
- to door, window, basement entrance, ventilation opening, neighboring boundary and public traffic line: 4 m
- to ignition source: 5 m
Transport of diesel
As a private individual, you can transport a maximum of 240 litres of diesel per car or with a combination of car and trailer. Any diesel in the car's fixed tank should not be counted. Single containers cannot hold more than 60 litres. Make sure that both vehicles and containers are in proper condition and carry out the transport in a responsible manner.