Petroleum is a highly flammable and sensitive product, which makes its handling risky. To ensure safety, legal compliance, and proper monitoring, the Government of India requires businesses dealing with petroleum to obtain a licence for import, transport, and storage of petroleum. This licence ensures that petroleum products are handled as per safety rules under the Petroleum Act, 1934 and the Petroleum Rules, 2002, managed by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).
What is a Licence for Import Transport, and Storage in Petroleum?
A licence for import, transport, and storage in petroleum is an official permit that gives legal permission to handle petroleum in India. This licence is very important because petroleum is a hazardous, flammable, and regulated product.
Here’s what it means in simple terms:
- Import – Permission to bring petroleum products into India from other countries.
- Transport – Permission to move petroleum safely from one location to another (by road, rail, or pipeline).
- Storage – Permission to keep petroleum in approved facilities such as tanks, warehouses, or terminals.
Why is a Licence for Import Transport, and Storage in Petroleum Required in India?
The licence is required because petroleum is hazardous. Without regulation, it can cause accidents, fires, or misuse. Having a licence for import, transport, and storage in petroleum helps in:
- Preventing fire and explosion risks.
- Ensuring safe storage in certified tanks or warehouses.
- Tracking petroleum imports to avoid illegal trade.
- Maintaining compliance with Indian petroleum safety laws.
Which Authority Issues the Licence for Import Transport, and Storage in Petroleum?
The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, issues the licence for import, transport, and storage in petroleum. Regional and sub-circle offices of PESO handle applications depending on the scale of operation.
What are the Different types of Licences for Import Transport, and Storage in Petroleum?
The types of licence for import, transport, and storage in petroleum depend on the purpose and quantity:
- Import Licence – For bringing petroleum products into India.
- Transport Licence – For moving petroleum by road, rail, or pipeline.
- Storage Licence – For keeping petroleum in tanks, godowns, or terminals.
- Retail/Wholesale Licence – For selling petroleum products to end users or distributors.
What Documents are Required to Apply for a Licence for Import Transport, and Storage in Petroleum?
The common documents needed include:
- Application form prescribed by PESO.
- Company registration certificate (LLP, Pvt. Ltd., or Proprietorship).
- Import Export Code (for import licence).
- Site plan of storage or transport facility.
- NOC from local authorities (Fire Department, Police, Municipality).
- Safety certificates and compliance reports.
- Proof of ownership/lease of land or tanks.
What is the Process to get a Licence for Import Transport, and Storage in Petroleum?
The step-by-step process is:
- Register on the PESO online portal.
- Fill the application form with details of petroleum activity (import/transport/storage).
- Upload required documents and pay the government fees.
- Site inspection by PESO officials.
- Approval and issue of the licence for import, transport, and storage in petroleum.
What are the Fees and Validity of the Licence for Import Transport, and Storage in Petroleum?
- The government fees depend on the type of licence and storage capacity. On average, it ranges from ₹5,000 to ₹50,000.
- The licence for import, transport, and storage in petroleum is generally valid for 3 years, after which it must be renewed.
How to Renew the Licence for Import, Transport, and Storage in Petroleum?
To renew the licence:
- Apply on the PESO online portal before expiry.
- Submit updated compliance certificates and documents.
- Pay renewal fees.
- After verification, the renewed licence for import, transport, and storage in petroleum is issued for the next term.
What are the Penalties for Operating without a Licence for Import, Transport, and Storage in Petroleum?
If someone operates without the required licence for import, transport, and storage in petroleum, strict penalties apply, such as:
- Heavy fines under the Petroleum Act, 1934.
- Imprisonment up to 3 years for serious violations.
- Seizure of petroleum products.
- Permanent ban on business operations.
Is it Mandatory to have a Licence for Import, Transport, and Storage in Petroleum in India?
Yes, it is mandatory under the Petroleum Act, 1934 and Petroleum Rules, 2002.
Can Small Businesses Also Apply for a Licence for Import, Transport, and Storage in Petroleum?
Yes, but they must meet PESO safety requirements and have proper storage/transport arrangements.
