Earthquake Valves
About Natural Gas Earthquake Shut-off valves
Earthquake Valve Installation Requirements
About Natural Gas Earthquake Shut-off Valves
A natural gas earthquake shut-off valve automatically shuts off your gas service when an earthquake of a sufficient magnitude occurs at your home's location. After the quake has stopped and you have determined that it is safe to do so, follow the manufacturer's instructions for restoring your gas service. You will need to make sure no gas leaks exist and re-light your pilot lights. You must ensure that your appliances are safe before operating them. The Gas Company or a service agency can restore your gas service, but remember that it may take many days or even weeks before someone can come to your location in a major emergency. (The Gas Company charges a fee to reset valves and re-light pilot lights.)
Earthquake Valve Installation Requirements
If you choose to have an earthquake gas shut-off valve installed, or are mandated to have one by your insurance company or the local building code, the valve must be installed on the downstream side of the meter. The downstream side is the customer side of the meter. See picture:
NOTE: When you hire a licensed contractor to install your valve, it is important that you ensure that the valve is installed on the downstream side (that is, the customer side of the meter), not on The Gas Company's. Earthquake valves are not permitted in utility curb meter vaults. Earthquake valves are not permitted in utility curb meter vaults.
CPUC Decision 01-11-068
Effective February 10, 2002, California Public Utility Commission (CPUC) Decision 01-11-068, prohibits contractors or homeowners from installing Earthquake Shut-Off Valves (EQV) on The Gas Company side of the gas meter.
In addition, The Gas Company no longer installs earthquake shut-off valves for its customers.
What if I already have a valve installed on The Gas Company's side?
If you have a valve that was installed by The Gas Company or one of its authorized contractors on or before the February 10, 2002 cutoff date, with proper documentation your installation may be allowed to remain in place.
City of Los Angeles Ordinance Regarding Earthquake Preparedness
The Los Angeles City Council has expanded an existing ordinance that requires all newly constructed homes and businesses to install an automatic earthquake gas shut-off valve. The ordinance also calls for home and business buyers to install a valve at the point of sale of an existing home or business. Moreover, if you're making alterations or additions valued at $10,000 or more, installing an automatic earthquake gas shut-off valve is mandatory by law.
You probably have questions about this new ordinance and the valves themselves. Southern California Gas Company has attempted to answer some of them.
For additional information call the City of Los Angeles at (888) 524-2845.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Los Angeles City Ordinance
Do all property owners have to comply with this expanded ordinance by installing an earthquake gas shut-off valve?
No. Only those properties located within the City of Los Angeles and within the City's jurisdiction for Building and Code Safety are subject to this law.
What are the criteria for the ordinance?
An earthquake gas shut-off valve must be installed if your home or business meets one of the following criteria: if you buy an existing property (must be installed at point of sale); if you build a new residential or business structure; if the valve of an alteration or addition to an existing property is more than $10,000; if your unit is part of a common structure (such as a condominium), all units in the structure must install a valve when any one unit is mandated to install one.
What if I don't live in the City of Los Angeles?
You don't have to comply with this new law, yet. But, other Southern California cities are considering similar laws.
What about new homes?
Developers of homes in new developments in Los Angeles have been subject to this ordinance for some time now.
What is the valve's total cost?
It varies by type of valve, installation and the company installing it.
Does the City of Los Angeles recommend any specific valves?
Yes. Only valves which have been approved by the Department of Building and Safety may be installed. The city has approved different valves. (Contact City of Los Angeles for list of approved valves).
Where can I purchase a valve?
From supply retailers, licensed plumbing contractors, or contact one of the manufacturers on the City of Los Angeles approved valves list.
Can I install the valve for my home myself?
Yes, if your home is a single family detached house and you meet the "Qualified Installer" requirements of the city. But, the valve must be installed on the customer side of the meter and a permit is required from the City of Los Angeles.(See picture above.)
Can Southern California Gas Company install it for me?
No.
Can I use a contractor?
Yes. You may hire a licensed plumber or contractor to install the valve on the customer side of the meter. (See picture above.)
What else can I do to further prepare my home for an earthquake?
Many things. For starters, secure your water heater and other natural gas appliances from moving during an earthquake. You can prepare a complete earthquake kit for your home and car. You can also design an earthquake plan to ensure your loved ones are safe in the event a quake strikes when family members are at different locations: work, school, out of town, etc.
Where can I find additional information?
Earthquake valve and restoring gas service after a valve activates may be found in The Gas Company Web site in the Regulatory section–Tariff Book, Rule 10, Section H, "Earthquake Valve Service."
If you have questions about your insurance company homeowner requirements, contact your insurance company or agent.
If you have questions about the ordinance, call The City of Los Angeles, Building and Safety Department at—
- (213) 482-0000 (outside of L.A. County)
- (888) 524-2845 (inside of L.A. County)
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