Fire protected oil tanks are designed for situations where a standard plastic or steel bunded tank cannot meet the required fire separation distances. These tanks include a built-in fire resistant outer layer, allowing them to be installed closer to buildings, boundaries, boilers, outbuildings, fences and windows than standard oil tanks.
This makes them ideal for homes with:
Limited garden or yard space
Shared boundaries or walls nearby
Courtyards, narrow side passages or enclosed locations
Outbuildings, workshops or plant rooms
A fire protected tank maintains the safety benefits of a bunded construction (inner tank + outer secondary containment) while adding a certified fire-resistant barrier tested to recognised fire safety standards.
Between a house and a boundary fence
Beside garages or workshops
In small gardens where clearance distances cannot be met
Against outbuildings or walls
Inside commercial or agricultural buildings (model-dependent)
Your installer will confirm whether a fire protection rating allows reduced clearance distances on your property.
Allows installation closer to buildings where space is limited
Reduces the need for separate fire protection screens or walls
Complies with UK Building Regulations and OFTEC guidance (when installed correctly)
Bunded design helps prevent environmental contamination
Suitable for kerosene home heating oil
Compatible with electronic and smart oil gauges
Fire protected tanks must be installed by a competent person, ideally an OFTEC registered installer. They will confirm siting distances, base requirements and ventilation guidelines.
Even though the tank provides fire resistance, your installer may still need to assess:
Building layout and proximity
Boiler flue positions
Delivery access
Base size and structural support
Fire protected bunded oil tanks are the recommended solution when space is tight and a standard bunded tank would not meet UK safety clearance rules. Their integrated fire-resistant layer allows safe, compliant installation in more locations, without the cost or disruption of building separate fire screens or walls.
