California Air Resources Board

Portable outboard marine tanks (OMTs) are used to supply fuel to outboard marine engines. Primarily constructed of plastic, the fuel tank is connected to the engine by use of a fuel line and a hand pump is used to prime the engine and start the flow of fuel. Because the container is constructed of plastic, it is possible for gasoline to seep through the material and permeate into ambient air.  Because of their large numbers, OMTs have the potential to create substantial hydrocarbon emissions resulting in ozone-forming smog and health related problems. 

In an effort to provide clarification to the portable outboard marine tanks and components community, staff of the CARB wants to remind all concerned parties: 

The requirement for outboard marine tanks to be sold with self-sealing caps found in the Portable Outboard Marine Tanks and Components Regulations became effective January 1, 2011, which is one year after the Federal requirements found in 40 CFR § 1060.105(c). However, all self-sealing caps sold after January 1, 2010, are required to be certified.

Further, all certified components must include markings that indicate the date of manufacture (month, day, and year) without the need for CARB staff to contact the manufacturer. CARB staff strongly encourages manufacturers to begin marking their components prior to the effective date.

In early November, CARB staff provided a preliminary reading of the OMT Regulations as it pertains to sell through. At that time, our view was the Regulations allowed products to be sold after January 1, 2010 or 2011, depending on the OMT component, that were both manufactured and delivered to retail prior to the appropriate date. After further review of the Regulation language, discussions with stakeholders, other CARB staff; CARB staff reads the Regulation to allow sell through for products simply manufactured prior to the appropriate date.

The new regulations will not affect existing boat owners.  Nor will there be a requirement for consumers to replace their tanks. The new regulations will require manufacturers to develop cleaner, more durable tanks and components that produce less pollution.  As consumers replace their tanks and components, they will only be able to purchase newer, cleaner tanks and components.