In today’s evolving transport infrastructure and energy sector, increasing attention is being paid to the use of alternative fuels, including compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). CNG and LPG are becoming important elements of environmentally friendly transportation. However, the operation of facilities that sell CNG/LPG – auto gas filling stations (AGZS) – is subject to strict legal regulation related to industrial safety, environmental protection, and the protection of the life and health of citizens.
Licensing of AGZS operations
Activities related to the storage and sale of CNG/LPG at AGZS require licensing under Federal law “On Licensing of Certain Types of Activities”. The license is issued by the Federal service for environmental, technological, and nuclear supervision (Rostekhnadzor) or its regional authorities, as AGZS are classified as hazardous production facilities.
Procedure for obtaining a license:
- Preparation of a package of documents including design documentation, equipment technical passports, state expert review conclusions, and evidence of personnel compliance with professional standards.
- Submission of an application to Rostekhnadzor along with the necessary documents.
- Conducting a site inspection for compliance with safety requirements.
- Making a decision to issue a license or refuse.
The license is issued indefinitely but is subject to re-registration or extension in case of changes in operating conditions or amendments to legislation.
Regulatory framework
The legal regulation of AGZS operations is based on the following main regulatory legal acts:
- Federal law “On industrial safety of hazardous production facilities”: establishes requirements for ensuring industrial safety at AGZS, which are considered hazardous production facilities.
- Federal Law “On licensing of certain types of activities”: defines the procedure for licensing activities related to the storage and sale of hazardous substances.
- Technical regulation of the Customs union “On the safety of oil and petroleum products”: contains safety requirements when working with LPG.
- Technical regulation of the Customs union “On the safety of equipment operating under excessive pressure”: regulates the use of compressors and tanks at AGZS.
- Sanitary and epidemiological rules and regulations (SanPiN): establish requirements for the location of AGZS and their impact on the environment.
In addition, GOST standards are applied for working with gas, such as:
- GOST “Automotive gas filling compressor stations. General technical requirements”.
- GOST “Household gas distribution systems. General technical requirements”.
AGZS safety requirements
Operational safety of AGZS is a key aspect of legal regulation. The main requirements include:
- Installation of systems for monitoring and controlling the condition of equipment, gas levels, and environmental parameters.
- Ensuring the tightness of pipelines and tanks to prevent leaks.
- Developing action plans for emergency situations and conducting regular staff training exercises.
- Performing mandatory technical maintenance and equipment verification.
Rostekhnadzor, as well as other regulatory bodies such as Rospotrebnadzor (regarding sanitary and epidemiological norms), monitors compliance with safety requirements.
Environmental requirements
AGZS must comply with environmental standards aimed at minimizing environmental impact. This includes:
- Installing air purification systems to remove emissions during refueling and gas storage.
- Preventing gas leaks into the atmosphere.
- Regularly conducting environmental monitoring and submitting reports to regulatory authorities.
Environmental requirements are governed by Federal law “On environmental protection” and other regulations.
Development Prospects
Given the drive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to environmentally friendly fuels, the development of CNG/LPG fuel infrastructure continues to gain momentum. However, for the successful operation of AGZS, strict compliance with all legal requirements is necessary, from the design stage to daily operation.
Yakovlev and Partners Law Group is ready to provide comprehensive legal services in the field of legal regulation of AGZS operations, including advice on licensing, document preparation, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
The legal regulation of operations related to CNG/LPG fueling stations is a complex and multifaceted process that requires detailed knowledge of legislation and practical skills in its application. Companies planning to develop this business area must carefully consider issues of licensing, safety, and ecology to ensure the stable and legal operation of their facilities.
If you require additional information or assistance in resolving issues related to the operation of AGZS, contact the experts at Yakovlev and Partners Law Group. We guarantee a professional approach and high-quality legal services.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute official legal advice.