Petrol Station Operating License

Operating a petrol station requires multiple permits beyond the standard trade registration. You need a building permit (Baugenehmigung) for the facility, an emission control permit or notification under the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG), and compliance with water protection regulations since fuel storage poses groundwater contamination risks.

The competent authorities (building authority, environmental office, and water authority) review your plans for explosion protection, vapor recovery systems, tank safety, and spill containment. Fuel tanks and dispensing equipment must meet technical safety standards and undergo regular inspections by authorized bodies such as TÜV. You must also comply with the 21st BImSchV, which limits hydrocarbon emissions from fuel handling, and maintain an operations logbook documenting inspections and maintenance.