If your business handles hazardous materials in California, you must complete your CERS filing for legal compliance and community safety. The system is supported at the state level by the California Environmental Protection Agency, but enforcement and review are conducted locally by the Certified Unified Program Agencies (CUPAs).
The process may seem overwhelming at first, but with a step-by-step guide to completing your CERS filing in California, this process can be surprisingly smooth and stress-free.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Your CERS Filing in California
Step 1: Confirm if your business is required to file.
Remember that not all businesses are required to file a CERS report. The first step is to determine your business’s obligations.
Typically, you will need to file a Hazardous Materials Business Plan if you handle hazardous materials at or above these thresholds.
- 55 gallons (liquid)
- 500 pounds (solid)
- 200 cubic feet (compressed gases)
Note: Lower thresholds apply for extremely hazardous substances.
Your business also needs to file a CERS if it:
- Operates underground storage tanks
- Falls under specific environmental programs regulated by your local Certified Unified
- Program Agency (CUPA).
Step 2: Gather all required information
Make sure you have all the necessary details before logging in. Have the following information on hand before you start.
- Business name, address, owner/operator information
- Contact details
- Complete chemical inventory (types, quantities, storage conditions)
- Site map showing hazardous material locations
- Safety data sheets for each material
Ensure that the information you provide is consistent in all documents. CUPAs often flag mismatches.
Step 3: Access or set up your CERS account.
Log in or create your account in the CERS portal. Make sure:
- Your business is correctly listed.
- Ensure that your account is correctly linked to your business.
- You are assigned the proper user role.
If you are filing on behalf of a company, confirm that you are authorized to certify and submit reports.
Avoid errors when setting up your account, as they may cause delays.
Step 4: Complete the required program elements.
In CERS, sections are officially called program elements. Complete only those that apply to your business.
- Hazardous Materials Business Plan (HMBP)
- Underground Storage Tank (UST)
- Aboveground Petroleum Storage Act (APSA) – only if thresholds are met
Note that APSA only applies to facilities that store 1,320 gallons or more of petroleum in qualifying containers. To add, hazardous waste reporting in CERS is usually limited to facilities operating under Tiered Permitting programs.
Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents.
Attached all required documents
- Site maps
- Emergency response plans
- Safety data sheets
Remember that not all records need to be uploaded; only those that are required to be maintained on-site.
Step 6: Review and electronically certify.
Make sure that you review everything before submitting. Check for:
- Accuracy of chemical quantities
- Correctness of facility details
- Completeness of attachments
Step 7: Submit and respond to CUPA review.
The local CUPA will review your filing. If everything is okay, they may approve it. If not, they may ask you to revise. Be ready to respond quickly to any feedback to avoid potential delays or possible penalties.
Step 8: Review and update.
Update your filing within 30 days of any significant changes.
- New hazardous materials
- Changes in quantities
- Modifications to storage locations
It will be wise to maintain your records throughout the year. This will make future filings so much easier.
CERS Filing Is More than Just a Requirement
Filing through CERS is more than just a regulatory requirement. It is a crucial way to ensure environmental safety and preparedness. It is important to keep your business compliant and avoid unnecessary complications by understanding the process and staying proactive.
Partner with Experts
Although staying compliant with CERS requires accuracy, attention to detail, and a clear understanding of ever-evolving regulations, it does not need to be overwhelming. You can ensure everything is done right while focusing on running your business by working with experts who can provide environmental consulting services. This guide to the California Environmental Reporting System is just the start. Call us today, and we will help you take care of the rest.