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PESO License Process: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Comprehensive guide to obtaining PESO (Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation) license for petroleum storage, explosives, and compressed gases in India.

March 2026 11 min read

What is PESO License?

The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) is the nodal agency under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, responsible for ensuring safety in the storage, handling, transport, and use of petroleum products and explosives throughout the nation.

A PESO license is a mandatory requirement for any individual or organization storing, handling, or dealing with petroleum products, explosives, compressed gases, or related materials. Unlike BIS certification which focuses on product manufacturing standards, PESO licensing covers operational safety compliance. This comprehensive guide covers the complete process to obtain PESO licenses.

Who Requires PESO License?

Petroleum Storage Operators

Companies or individuals storing petrol, diesel, LPG, kerosene, or other petroleum products above specified quantities

Explosives Dealers & Manufacturers

Organizations manufacturing, storing, or dealing with fireworks, ammunition, mining explosives, or other explosive materials

Compressed Gas Operators

Facilities storing or handling compressed gases like LPG, CNG, oxygen, nitrogen, or acetylene

Pressure Vessel Operators

Organizations operating pressure vessels for storage or processing of hazardous materials

Types of PESO Licenses

Petroleum Storage License

For storage facilities of petroleum products like petrol, diesel, kerosene, and lubricants

  • Storage capacity: 5 KL to 50,000 KL
  • Validity: 5 years

Explosives License

For manufacturing, storing, or dealing with explosive materials and fireworks

  • Categories: Grade 1 to Grade 4
  • Validity: 3 years (renewable)

Compressed Gas License

For LPG filling plants, CNG stations, and gas distribution centers

  • Capacity limits per type
  • Validity: 5 years

Pressure Vessel License

For pressure vessels storing hazardous liquids or gases

  • Based on capacity and hazard
  • Validity: 3 years

Eligibility & Requirements

Basic Eligibility Criteria

  • Legally recognized entity (individual, partnership, company)
  • Physical facility meeting PESO safety standards
  • No criminal history of serious offenses
  • Trained and competent personnel to handle hazardous materials

Safety Infrastructure Requirements

  • Fire detection and suppression systems
  • Emergency response equipment and procedures
  • Proper ventilation and safety distance compliance
  • Trained safety personnel and emergency coordinators

Step-by-Step PESO License Application Process

1

Initial Consultation & Site Assessment

Identify license type needed and verify facility compliance with PESO safety norms

2

Prepare Technical Documentation

Prepare safety plan, layout drawings, emergency procedures, and hazard assessment reports

3

Safety Infrastructure Implementation

Install fire suppression, ventilation, emergency systems, and other safety infrastructure

4

Submit PESO Application

File application with all required documents at nearest PESO regional office

5

Inspection & Compliance Verification

PESO inspector visits facility to verify compliance with all safety standards

6

Final Approval & License Issuance

Upon successful inspection, PESO issues the license valid for specified period

Documents Required for PESO License Application

Company & Legal Documents

  • Registration/Incorporation certificate of company
  • PAN and GST registration certificate
  • Photo ID and address proof of authorized signatory
  • Power of Attorney (if applicable)

Technical & Safety Documents

  • Facility layout and site plan with safety distances marked
  • Technical drawings of storage vessels and equipment
  • Safety plan and hazard assessment report
  • Fire detection and suppression system details
  • Emergency response plan and evacuation procedure

Property & Compliance Documents

  • Property ownership or lease agreement
  • Occupancy certificate from local municipal authority
  • Pollution control board clearance (if applicable)
  • Personnel training and competency certificates

Timeline & License Fees

License Type Processing Time License Fee Validity
Petroleum Storage 6-8 weeks ₹5,000 - ₹25,000 5 years
Explosives (Grade 1-2) 8-12 weeks ₹10,000 - ₹50,000 3 years
Compressed Gas 6-10 weeks ₹5,000 - ₹20,000 5 years
Pressure Vessel 4-6 weeks ₹3,000 - ₹10,000 3 years

Note: Actual timeline and fees vary based on license type, facility capacity, location, and compliance readiness. Initial safety infrastructure setup typically requires 2-4 months.

Benefits of PESO License

Legal authorization to store and handle hazardous materials
Ensures public and employee safety with strict compliance
Insurance and liability coverage eligibility
Business continuity and operational legitimacy
Access to government contracts and tenders
Enhanced credibility with suppliers and customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PESO license mandatory for all petroleum storage?

Yes, PESO license is mandatory for petroleum storage above 5 KL capacity. Smaller quantities below threshold may be exempted.

How long does PESO license application processing take?

Typically 6-12 weeks depending on license type, facility readiness, and compliance with safety norms.

What happens if I operate without PESO license?

Operating without PESO license is illegal and can result in prosecution, penalties up to ₹10,00,000, and facility closure.

Can I apply for PESO license before completing safety infrastructure?

You can submit application, but the actual license will be issued only after PESO inspection confirms all safety infrastructure is in place.

How often must I renew my PESO license?

PESO licenses require renewal every 3-5 years depending on license type. Annual surveillance inspections may also be required.

Why Choose Standphill India for PESO Licensing?

PESO licensing requires expertise in safety regulations, technical documentation, and government procedures. Standphill India has successfully obtained 100+ PESO licenses across petroleum storage, explosives, and compressed gas categories.

  • Regulatory Expertise — Deep knowledge of PESO regulations and requirements across all license types
  • Facility Assessment — Initial assessment to identify gaps and recommend safety infrastructure improvements
  • Complete Documentation — Preparation of all technical and safety documentation required by PESO
  • PESO Coordination — Direct liaison with PESO offices for smooth application processing and inspection coordination

Get Your PESO License Today

Let Standphill India streamline your PESO licensing process with expert guidance and support.

Apply for PESO License