Michigan Revamps Leaking Underground Storage Tank Site Closure – What It Means for You

Bottom line: Michigan’s updated Part 213 LUST closure process gives owners a new risk-based path through MIRBCA guidance and RIDE electronic reporting.

• For environmental teams: Closure work now depends on clean risk evaluation, MIRBCA forms, and electronic submittals that align with EGLE’s updated process.
• For decision-makers: Early review can prevent stalled closures, unclear cleanup scope, and reporting rework.
• What to watch: Retired forms and new RIDE workflows can create friction for sites with older records.
• F&V perspective: Fleis & VandenBrink brings Michigan UST consulting experience, EGLE coordination, MIRBCA training, and RIDE reporting practice to LUST closure work.

Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has recently updated how leaking underground storage tank (LUST) sites are closed under Part 213.

In late 2025, EGLE introduced the Michigan Risk-Based Corrective Action (MIRBCA) guidance. MIRBCA is a new site-specific, risk-based approach to LUST cleanup and includes standardized reporting forms. The MIRBCA guidance has updated EGLE’s LUST cleanup process to better align with the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) risk-based standards. The results are expected to streamline site reporting and closure. Over the last two years, EGLE has also expanded the capabilities of the Remediation Information Data Exchange (RIDE) online system.

Alongside the new MIRBCA guidance, EGLE now requires electronic submission of Part 213 closure reports through RIDE. This requirement expedites the approval process. Historical reporting forms are being retired and being replaced with MIRBCA guidance.

For LUST site owners, these changes offer opportunities for more efficient and cost-effective closures. The MIRBCA framework allows for tailored response activities focused on actual risk reduction. This avoids unnecessary cleanups while still protecting human health and the environment. However, navigating the new MIRBCA criteria and RIDE submittal requirements can be complex for those unfamiliar with the updated regulations.

At Fleis & VandenBrink (F&V), we have been at the forefront of these developments:

• As an EGLE-qualified underground storage tank (UST) consultant with decades of experience in Michigan, F&V is well versed in the latest Part 213 closure procedures.
• F&V provides Part 213 technical support directly to EGLE Project Managers, and we help and learn alongside EGLE staff to navigate the MIRBCA changes.
• Our experts have participated in EGLE’s official MIRBCA training and have over three years of firsthand experience using the RIDE electronic reporting system.
• We have the expertise to interpret the new MIRBCA guidelines and utilize risk-based cleanup strategies that meet regulatory standards while minimizing unnecessary costs.

Now is an ideal time to close out your LUST site under these streamlined rules.

F&V’s team is ready to guide you through every step – from site assessment and risk evaluation to preparing the required electronic reports – while identifying cost-effective solutions to achieve regulatory closure. We believe the current MIRBCA framework presents a highly effective route to LUST closure. Contact F&V today to learn how we can help you navigate Michigan’s new Part 213 LUST closure process and deliver a successful, compliant closure for your site.