How Far From Gas Meter To Service

Gas Meter Clearance Distance Codes & Specifications
Defects, installation & inspection points for gas meters

• POST a QUESTION or COMMENT about residential gas meter installation clearance distance codes & specifications

InspectAPedia tolerates no conflicts of interest. We take no human relationship with advertisers, products, or services discussed at this website.

Gas meter clearance & piping distances & gas meter dimensions:

This commodity provides a detailed table of example clearance distance specifications for natural gas meter installations, giving the distances to various building features such every bit windows, doors, electrical components, vents, air conditioners, and outside hose bibs.

Gas service line trench features are also described.

We include examples of typical gas meter overall dimensions for residential too as commercial gas meters for both LP and natural gas.

In this article serial on gas meters, controls & piping, nosotros provide descriptions and photographs of unsafe gas piping, indications of unsafe or improperly operating gas appliances, gas meters, and other gas installation defects.

We also provide an ARTICLE Alphabetize for this topic, or you tin try the page top or bottom SEARCH BOX every bit a quick way to find information yous demand.

Clearance Distances between a Gas Meter or Gas Meter Regulator Vent & Building Components

Example1 Gas Meter Clearance Distances from Edifice Features
Building Feature	Minimum Clearance Distance to Gas Meter or Regulator Vent
Gas meter location	Front wall (forepart presumed facing public access), or inside 3 feet of side wall (see corner clearances)
Regulator relief vent altitude from whatever outside edifice corner	12 inches. With this specification met, in that location are no clearance distance requirements for building features located effectually the corner from the gas meter. If the regulator relief vent is less than 12" from any exterior corner, and then the minimum clearances specified in this tabular array must be maintained. Mensurate as a direct, straight line from the nearest meter set or component to the nearest edge of the building feature "as if using a string"

Notes to the Table To a higher place

1. These are typical gas meter clearance distances to various edifice features, but continue in listen withal that this list is not exhaustive. Local edifice code requirements for safety distances from a gas meter or gas meter vent vary, depending on where you alive, and are likewise dissimilar betwixt the U.S. and Canada. Be sure to check with your local building or plumbing lawmaking officials.

Gas meter clearances to finish grade (soil surface)
Bottom of gas meter to stop grade	vi inches
Bottom of gas line shut-off to finish grade	8 inches
Fuel line connection location (at meter top) to end course	32 inches to 46 inches depending on gas meter model & meter type (size or capacity)

...

Gas meter clearances to Landscape features, soil depths, soil embrace
Landscape features like shrubs or fences	3 anxiety articulate to front of meter 2 anxiety articulate to either side of meter
Minimum soil depth or embrace over residential gas service line	eighteen inches - residential 24 inches - commercial 24 inches - snow country
Maximum soil depth or cover over gas service line	36 inches Depth includes four inches of bedding sand nether gas line & half-dozen inches of sand shading over the gas line, & typical excavation trench width of 12 inches. Backfill must be gratis of sharp objects and must not contain rocks larger than 8", or increase sand shading depth to 12 inches.

...

Gas meter regulator vent clearance distances to edifice features
Gas meter regulator vent clearance distance to windows, attic vent, clamber space vent, soffit vent	3 feet in any management horizontally or vertically to the characteristic one foot to a feature located below
Gas meter regulator vent clearance to electric devices such as switches, electric receptacles, power disconnects	3 feet in any direction to the feature
Gas meter regulator vent clearance to building doors or garage doors	three feet in any direction horizontally or vertically to the feature i foot to a feature located below

...

Gas meter regulator vent clearance to building mechanical system air intake openings
Window mounted wall fan	Ten Feet in any direction
Window mounted air conditioner See CLEARANCE Distance, HVAC
Wall mounted air conditioner
Mechanical system air intake
Bathroom fan vent opening	3 Feet in any direction
Dress dryer intake or frazzle vent opening See CLOTHES DRYER VENT CLEARANCES & TERMINATION
Fireplace cleanout opening
Heating apparatus air intake or frazzle opening

...

Gas Meter Clearances to Other Building Features
Gas meter clearance distance to air conditioner or heat pump (pad mounted) compressor/condenser unit	Iii Feet in whatsoever direction
Gas meter clearance distance to electrical generator or electrical transformer
Gas meter clearance altitude to open flame barbeque or cooker or to an incinerator or other open flame device
Gas meter clearance distance to telephone, cablevision or other communications connexion box or terminal	2 Feet in whatever direction
Gas meter clearance altitude to water spigot (hose bibb)

...

Gas meter clearance distances to electrical panels, wiring & meters (outdoors)
Electrical box front end (confront) clearance altitude to gas meter	3 feet for non-utility gas meters and electric service equipment that can create an arc when operated. Meters shall be located at least iii ft from electric meters and other sources of ignition. Meters shall not exist installed closer than 2 ft from the front of an electric panel lath on an adjacent wall, opposite or another wall. - PSE&K cited below.
Gas meter clearance distance to SEC / Conduit	18 inches
Gas meter clearance distance to electric basis rod	i pes Ground rod location must be clearly marked

...

Gas meter clearance distances beneath balconies, entrance platforms, decks & porches
Gas meter vertical clearance altitude from meter top to roof overhang, soffit, deck, porch	6 feet
Gas meter horizontal clearance altitude from entry door above the meter (due east.1000. accessed by deck, porch or landing) to closest point on meter	3 feet

...

Gas meter clearance to sources of ignition

Electrical equipment that tin can serve equally a source of ignition is defined as an ignition source if it creates an arc or spark during operation. Normal building electrical wiring and junction boxes are non sources of ignition, Electrical panels, most electrical switches, relays, and like controls that can create a spark when operated are considered a "source of ignition". Electric meters on buildings are not considered a source of ignition.

All portions of a gas utility distribution organization up to the outlet of the meter are regulated past 49 CFR Function 192, nether the U.S. Section of Transportation. These regulations require a iii-foot clearance from indoor meters to sources of ignition, but have no comparable requirement when the meter is located outdoors. At least iii feet, per NEC 110-26 & NFPA 54-National Fuel Gas Code for premises-owned gas meters. In at least some jurisdictions, the National Fuel Gas Lawmaking excludes meters and other equipment used by the gas utility from inclusion inside scope of the Code.

...

Gas piping clearance distances

moved to GAS PIPING CLEARANCES, CODES & DEFECTS where we include gas pipe clearances from wiring or other building or site features

Typical Residential & Commercial Gas Meter Overall Dimensions

Hullo. I would like to install a Generator and Pool Equipment near by existing gas meter.

Does the 3 foot distance utilize to all equipment or just the heater and generator? Also if I increase the size of the gas meter, how large would it exist?

[Click to enlarge any prototype] Gas meter dimensions and images shown here were adapted from illustrations provided past the plumbing supplier source cited below.

Garry:

I'd use the clearance altitude to all equipment since both condom and working space are requirements effectually the gas meter.

A larger-catamenia residential gas meter may be 1-3" larger in its largest dimension than your existing one, and are typically in this range:

• eight.8" (224mm) wide, viii.7" (221 mm) deep, and 12.7" (323 mm) high - 250 CFH at 1/2" W.C. Differential - Residential
• ten.3" (262mm) wide, 10.0" (254mm) deep, and 15.0" (381mm) high - 425 CFH at 1/2" W.C. Differential - Residential
• 10.vi" (269mm) wide, 10.0" (254mm) deep, and xv.0 (381mm) high - 630 CFH at 1/two" W.C. Differential - Commercial
• 14.62" (372mm) wide, 16.62" (422mm) deep, and 23.94" (608 mm) high - AL-1000 - thousand CFH at seven" West.C. Differential - Industrial Gas Meter operating at MAOP = 100 psig

Source: "Gas Meters for Natural or LPG Gas", PlumbingSupply.com, 994 E 20th St., Chico, CA 95928 USA retrieved 2017/07/01, original source: https://www.plumbingsupply.com/gasmeters.html

Gas Meter & Gas Piping Installation Information Sources & Relevant Building Codes & Standards

• American Gas Association, Tel: 202-824-7000 Website: https://www.aga.org/
• ANSI B109 "Rotary Blazon Gas Deportation Meters", bachelor from http://webstore.ansi.org/ [Natural Gas]
• Alberta, Canada, GAS METER CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS for ALBERTA [PDF] ATCO, ATCOenergy, ATCO Park : 5302 Forand Street S.Westward. Calgary, AB Canada,
  1-844-687-2826 Natural Gas Emergency 1-800-511-3447 - Electricity Emergency 1-800-668-5506
  Extract citing additional Canadian codes:
  The installation of the meter, regulator, business firm line and secondary service lines must conform to the following codes and standards:
  Alberta Building Code
  CAN/CSA-Z662
  CAN/CSA-B149.one
  The Alberta Rubber Codes Human action
  The Alberta Gas Code Regulations
• BGE GAS & ELECTRIC INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS [PDF] BGE, Baltimore Gas & Electric Co.

  and NSTAR GAS & ELECTRIC INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS [PDF] NSTAR

• British Columbia, Canada, INFORMATION Message NO: B-G5 051206 iv, CLEARANCE TO METER REGULATOR VENTS [PDF] BC Prophylactic Authority, retrieved 2021/09/23 original source: www.technicalsafetybc.ca/sites/default/files/B-G5-051206%204%xx-%20Clearances%20to%20Meter%20Regulator%20Vents.pdf
  Excerpts:
  
  There are a number of instances in the CSA B149.1 Natural gas and Propane Installation Lawmaking where oblique references are made to clearances. This Information Bulletin summarizes the clearance requirements to resolve a long history of conflicting requirements.

  The required clearances for equipment, vents, services, exhausts or openings to meter regulator vents are detailed in the attached diagrams. Please annotation that building opening means any edifice opening, such as an openable door or window and not merely permanent openings such as a ventilation air opening.

• British Columbia, Canada Gas Meter Clearances: also see Gas Meter Clearances, BC, British Columbia, Canada, courtesy of Canadian Chimney, 521 Brusque Close Ladysmith, BC ​V9G 1A7 Canada, (250)800-2251 https://www.canadianchimney.com/​
• California, Compatible PLUMBING CODE Chapter 12 FUEL PIPING [PDF] California IAPMO Plumbing Code 2007, retrieved 2017/11/12, original source: http://www.iapmo.org/California%20Plumbing%20Code/Chapter%2012.pdf
• Canada, Electricity and Gas Inspection Regulations (SOR/86-131), laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-86-131/index.html
• Enbridge, serving: Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, Us, GAS SERVICE MANUAL [PDF] (2018) Enbridge, retrieved 2021/09/23 original source: https://www.midamericanenergy.com/media/pdf/gas-service-manual.pdf

  Details of clearance zone requirements from air vents, air intakes, doors, windows, electrical source, electrical meter and other building features.

• GAS METER PROTECTION BOLLARDS - protect from damage by vehicles
• EC Mag, "Lawmaking Questions & Answers", (February 2000 Q&A discussing August 1999 magazine effect) Electrical Contractor Magazine, 3 Bethesda Metro Center, Suite 1100 Bethesda, Doctor 20814 USA Tel: 301.657.3110 Website: http://www.ecmag.com/
• GAS METER CODES & STANDARDS
• GAS PIPING CLEARANCES, CODES & DEFECTS
• Maryland, U.s.a., BGE GAS & Electrical INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS [PDF] BGE, Baltimore Gas & Electric Co. at inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Gas-Electric-Installation-Requirements-BGE.pdf

  NSTAR GAS & ELECTRIC INSTALLATION REQUIREMETNS [PDF] NSTAR,

• Minnesota, REQUIRED DISTANCE FROM GAS PIPES, LIQUID PROPANE TANKS, AND ELECTRIC LINES [PDF], (2008) retrieved 2017/11/12, original source: https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules?id=4725.2150&format=pdf
• NFPA 54: National Fuel Gas Code, 2015 Edition (latest) is the best source for gas pipe requirements. Readers have raised clearance questions that were non necessarily detailed in the model standards or codes - many of these have been antiseptic by local regime so we like to add those as well. Quoting from the AGA:
  
  The American Gas Association servers every bit the secretariat to the ANSI Accredited Standards Committee (ASC) Z223 on National Fuel Gas Code. The ASC Z223 develops and publishes ANSI Z223.one, National Fuel Gas Code.

  The Code is jointly developed with the National Burn Protection Association (NFPA) 54 Committee and is also known as NFPA 54. 2012 Edition National Fuel Gas Code

• Ontario, Canada, CLEARANCE DISTANCES: Electric ARC SOURCES to GAS EQUIPMENT - ONTARIO [PDF] in Ontario Electric Safety Code, Bulletin 2-10-13 Electric equipment near combustible gas equipment Rule 2-326 and 6-408 (2019) retrieved 2021/09/23 original source: esasafe.com/assets/files/esasafe/pdf/Electrical_Safety_Products/Bulletins/2-10-13.pdf
  Excerpt:

  Rule two-326 states that the clearance betwixt arc-producing electrical equipment and a combustible gas relief device or vent shall exist in accordance with the requirements of CSA B149.1, "Natural gas and propane installation code", which uses the terms "source of ignition" and "belch openings of relief devices".

  Questions have been asked regarding the specific types of electrical equipment covered past the Rule.

  Arc-producing electric equipment which is considered a source of ignition includes, but is not limited to:

  receptacles, switches, meter base of operations plug in transfer devices, meter base plug in devices with an internal service air conditioning units, and related disconnecting means. This interpretation is consistent with the rules apropos the utilise of electrical equipment in Class 1 Zone ii locations.

  Meter bases, conventional mechanical meters and conventional smart meters are not a source of ignition, and are permitted to exist located within 1 metre of a natural gas discharge opening and 3 metres of a propane gas discharge opening. A meter is considered a conventional meter if it does not contain an internal service disconnecting characteristic.

  All sources of ignition, regardless of the date of installation, shall be kept outside of the clearance shown in Effigy B1. Meter mounting device (meter base) locations, as per Rule 6-408 f), shall be in compliance with the requirements of the supply authority.

• PG&E, ELECTRIC & GAS SERVICE REQUIREMENTS [PDF] (2017-2018, TD-7001M, GREENBOOK, Gas meter & electric meter installation manual, Website: www.pge.com/greenbook
• PG&Eastward, GAS Blueprint & GAS METER LOCATIONS [PDF], (2013), Pacific Gas & Electric Visitor
• PG&E GAS METER CLEARANCES [PDF] and electric service requirements
• PG&E Dark-green BOOK ELECTRIC & GAS SERVICE REQUIREMENTS (TD-7001M) 2020–2021 [PDF] original source: www.pge.com/pge_global/common/pdfs/services/building-and-renovation/greenbook-transmission-online/greenbook_manual_full.pdf also available here at
• Puget Audio Free energy Inc'due south 2014 Gas Meter Clearance specifications, [PDF] retrieved 8/19/2014, - original source: https://pse.com/accountsandservices/Construction/Documents/3885.pdf
• PSE&Chiliad, "GAS Apparatus and GAS PIPING", [PDF], (2017), PSE&M Construction, New Jersey, USA, TEl: 800-722-0256, retrieved 2017/11/12, original source: https://world wide web.pseg.com/business organization/builders/new_service/before/pdf/RequirementsGasService.pdf
• PSE&G, "Gas Appliance and Gas Piping", [PDF], (2012), PSE&G Construction, New Jersey, USA, TEl: 800-722-0256, retrieved four June 2015, original source: https://www.pseg.com/business concern/builders/new_service/before/pdf/RequirementsGasService.pdf
• PSE, GAS METER CLEARANCES AND SERVICE INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS [PDF] (2021) Puget Sound Energy, BOT-01H P.O. Box 91269 Bellevue, WA 98009-9269 USA, retrieved 2021/09/three original source: https://www.pse.com/-/media/Feature/PSE/Structure-Service/Technical-Resources-Documents/Clearances-Service-Lines-Meter-Locations/Gas-Meter-Clearances-and-Service-Installation-Requirements.pdf
• Puget Sound Energy Inc'southward 2014 gas meter clearance specifications, retrieved 8/19/2014, - original source: https://pse.com/accountsandservices/Structure/Documents/3885.pdf
• Questar Gas, "Practiced PRACTICES FOR GAS Piping AND APPLIANCE INSTALLATIONS" [PDF] (2015) Questar Gas, at present Dominion Energy, Website: https://www.dominionenergy.com/, - retrieved 2017/eleven/12, original source: https://www.questargas.com/brochures/59060_401.pdf
• SOCAL, "Gas Service Guidebook", Southern California Gas Service Guidebook, [PDF] (2013) - original source: http://www.socalgas.com/documents/construction/GasServiceGuidebook.pdf
• U.Due south. Energy Information Administration - environmental impact assessment.doe.gov/
• U.S. Ecology Protection Bureau - epa.gov/solar/energy-and-yous/impact/natural-gas.html
• Washington Gas Light Co., GAS METER & REGULATOR CLEARANCES, CONTRACTOR GUIDELINES [PDF] Washington Gas, WGL, 6801 Industrial Route, Springfield VA 22151, Website: www.washingtongas.com retrieved 2017/11/12 original source: https://world wide web.washingtongas.com/-/media/94c5206d9d314f0cb0fbc157f0c53eb2.pdf
• At Natural Gas.Org www.naturalgas.org/surroundings/naturalgas.asp#emission you'll find a tabular array of combustion products
• At geocities.com/rainforest/6847/report1.html is an interesting and detailed though non "neutral" report on the components and contaminants in the combustion of natural gas. You'll encounter a long long list of emissions products, but look again – most of the contaminant levels listed are in the picograms.
• apvgn.pt/documentacao/iangv_rep_part1.pdf lists the components in natural gas frazzle from vehicles
• The Need Project, Manassas, VA: need.org/needpdf/infobook_activities/SecInfo/NGasS.pdf
• Kroschwitz, Jacqueline I., and Mary Howe-Grant (eds.). "Gas, Natural." In Encyclopedia of Chemical Engineering. 4th ed., vol. 12. New York: John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 1993.
• Tussing, Arlon R., & Bob Tippee. The Natural Gas Industry: Evolution, Structure, and Economic science. second ed. Tulsa, OK: PennWell Publishing, 1995.
• "HOW to READ Electrical & NATURAL GAS METERS", [PDF] U.South. DOE original source: www.energysavers.gov/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=13120?print

Reader Q&A - also see the FAQs series linked-to beneath

@Dale:

Canadian provinces may have different clearance regulations, and differing interpretations of the national Canadian model gas codes.

More examples are below, and all of these are included in our citations given in the article higher up.

National Canada: see also

Electricity and Gas Inspection Regulations (SOR/86-131)
at
https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-86-131/alphabetize.html

Alberta, Canada: Gas Meter Clearance Distance codes for Alberta, Canada

"In that location must be a minimum of three anxiety (0.9m) separation between any office of the gas meter/regulation installation and any sources of ignition (i.e. open up flames, electrical panels, switches, meters.)"

- Source: ATCO, GAS METER CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS for ALBERTA [PDF] ATCO, ATCOenergy, ATCO Park : 5302 Forand Street S.Due west. Calgary, AB Canada,
1-844-687-2826 Natural Gas Emergency 1-800-511-3447 - Electricity Emergency i-800-668-5506

- Alberta's ATCO who in turn cite:

The installation of the meter, regulator, business firm line and secondary service lines must conform to the post-obit codes and standards:
Alberta Edifice Code
CAN/CSA-Z662
Can/CSA-B149.1
The Alberta Prophylactic Codes Act
The Alberta Gas Code Regulations

Gas Meter Clearances, BC, British Columbia, Canada, courtesy of Canadian Chimney, 521 Short Close Ladysmith, BC ​V9G 1A7 Canada, (250)800-2251 https://world wide web.canadianchimney.com/​

[Click to enlarge any image]

...

For BC, Canada gas meter clearances besides see

Information BULLETIN NO: B-G5 051206 four, CLEARANCE TO METER REGULATOR VENTS [PDF] BC Safety Say-so, retrieved 2021/09/23 original source: https://www.technicalsafetybc.ca/sites/default/files/B-G5-051206%204%20-%20Clearances%20to%20Meter%20Regulator%20Vents.pdf

available also at

https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/BC-Clearances-to-Gas-Meter-Regulator-Vents-BCSA.pdf

There are a number of instances in the CSA B149.i Natural gas and Propane Installation Code where oblique references are made to clearances. This Information Message summarizes the
clearance requirements to resolve a long history of alien requirements.

The required clearances for equipment, vents, services, exhausts or openings to meter regulator vents are detailed in the attached diagrams. Please note that building opening ways
any edifice opening, such equally an openable door or window and not just permanent openings such every bit a ventilation air opening.

Ontario gas meter clearances also see

CLEARANCE DISTANCES: Electrical ARC SOURCES to GAS EQUIPMENT - ONTARIO [PDF] in Ontario Electrical Safety Code, Bulletin two-10-13 Electrical equipment most combustible gas equipment Dominion 2-326 and 6-408 (2019) retrieved 2021/09/23 original source: https://esasafe.com/assets/files/esasafe/pdf/Electrical_Safety_Products/Bulletins/2-10-13.pdf

Available at

https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Electrical-Arc-to-Gas-Equipment-Distances-Ontario.pdf

Extract

Rule ii-326 states that the clearance between arc-producing electrical equipment and a combustible gas relief device or vent shall be in accordance with the requirements of CSA B149.1, "Natural gas and propane installation lawmaking", which uses the terms "source of ignition" and "discharge openings of relief devices".

Questions have been asked regarding the specific types of electrical equipment covered by the Rule.

Arc-producing electric equipment which is considered a source of ignition includes, only is not limited to:

receptacles, switches, meter base plug in transfer devices, meter base plug in devices with an internal service air conditioning units, and related disconnecting means. This estimation is consistent with the rules concerning the utilize of electrical equipment in Course 1 Zone 2 locations.

Meter bases, conventional mechanical meters and conventional smart meters are not a source of ignition, and are permitted to exist located within 1 metre of a natural gas discharge opening and 3 metres of a propane gas discharge opening. A meter is considered a conventional meter if it does not contain an internal service disconnecting feature.

All sources of ignition, regardless of the date of installation, shall exist kept outside of the clearance shown in Figure B1. Meter mounting device (meter base) locations, as per Rule 6-408 f), shall be in compliance with the requirements of the supply dominance.

COMMENT: How-do-you-do, the clearance altitude for gas meters from shrubs or trees listed on this website, Is this regulations for BC or all provinces?

@Marc,

Thank you for a helpful gas meter clearance altitude question that I'd phrase as "How does a building wall count in gas meter clearance distance?"

I haven't seen that detail spelled out explicitly in any of the electrical or plumbing codes; y'all'll meet all the gas to electric component clearance distances I could find given to a higher place on this page.

From what I've found in gas meter and electrical specifications from several utilities, a building wall can serve as a barrier wall when information technology'due south solid masonry; I would think that nosotros'd care nearly the wall construction materials, and near how well any wall penetrations are sealed.

In concept you lot wouldn't want it to be possible for a gas leak to pass through a wall opening to any electrical component that could effect a spark and thus ignite a fire or explosion.

Every bit a related example that could address gas vs electric installation safe details, an electrical meter installation on an un-finished wall may not be approved by your local inspector. The illustration beneath is excerpted from a mutual "Electric and Gas Meter Set Separation Dimensions" certificate provided by PG&East (Pacific Gas and Electric Co.) ; re: your question: note that it doesn't address installations on the other side of the wall - except past inference.

It may be that this question will exist in the form of an opinion from your local building or electric inspector: those authorities are the terminal legal word on lawmaking interpretation.

Run into PG&E GREEN Volume ELECTRIC & GAS SERVICE REQUIREMENTS (TD-7001M) 2020–2021 [PDF] original source: https://www.pge.com/pge_global/common/pdfs/services/building-and-renovation/greenbook-manual-online/greenbook_manual_full.pdf

[Click whatever image to meet more details]

My residential gas meter is located outdoors, next to my garage wall. My electrical circuit breaker panel is located Inside the garage, immediately on the other side of the aforementioned wall. Inasmuch as the meter and electrical panel are completely separated by the noted wall, are there whatsoever minimum clearance regulations that utilize?

@Sandi,

Your gas visitor and plumbing inspector normally will want the gas meter and its vent to be outdoors; on occasion an inspector might allow information technology to remain indoors provided its vent is piped to the building outside.

Gas piping, provided information technology'southward properly installed, routed, protected from damage, and is the proper material, can run inside of buildings.

Encounter GAS PIPING CLEARANCES, CODES & DEFECTS

My natural gas service line currently runs along the wall of my firm across my patio. If I close in the patio, do I have to movement the line or can I just enclose it in the new room?

@Cb,

I accept not found a national gas code discussion of "temporary" gas piping connexion valves and shutoffs, and I hold that there are plenty of outdoor connections to natural gas piping.

In general it is permitted to tap into the incoming gas line downstream from the gas meter provided that the work is done past a licensed plumber (or is permitted by others in your jurisdiction) and, of class, that the proper and prophylactic devices and fittings are used.

Watch out: the installation in your photo looks quite unsafe to me: unless your fittings include a quick-disconnect that reliably shuts off the gas supply and that is approved for your outdoor use, the presence of a valve at the gas meter that could be opened to dump an endless period of natural gas at the building risks fire or explosion - when the flexible gas hose is disconnected or should the hose be damaged and leak.

Watch out: it'due south not clear in your photo but your gas delivery to the generator may demand an boosted gas pressure regulator to pace down from the incoming pressure from the main regulator at the meter.

Be sure to inquire your local plumbing inspector to OK this installation.

The model plumbing code (UPC) does hash out requirements for gas piping that your plumbing inspector might consider when looking at your installation as in your photo.

Examples:

404.7 Above-Ground Outdoor [Gas] Piping

All piping (including CSST) installed outdoors shall exist elevated non less than 31/2 inches (152 mm) above ground and where installed beyond roof surfaces, shall be elevated not less than 31/ii inches (152 mm) above the roof surface. Piping installed above footing, outdoors, and installed across the surface of roofs shall be deeply supported and located where it volition be protected from physical damage.

CSST systems shall be protected in accord with the manufacturer's installation instructions. Where passing through an outside wall, the pipage shall also be protected confronting corrosion past coating or wrapping with an inert material. Where piping is encased in a protective pipe sleeve, the annular space between the piping and the sleeve shall be sealed.

404.thirteen Location of [Gas] Outlets

The unthreaded portion of piping outlets shall extend not less than l inch (25 mm) through finished ceilings and walls and where extending through floors or outdoor patios and slabs, shall not be less than 2 inches (51 mm) to a higher place them.

The outlet plumbing fixtures or piping shall be deeply supported.

Outlets shall non be placed behind doors. Outlets shall be located in the room or space where the appliance is installed.

Exception: Listed and labeled flush-mounted-type quick- disconnect devices and listed and labeled gas convenience outlets shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.

409.3.2 [Gas shutoff valves at ] Individual Buildings

In a common system serving more than one edifice, shutoff valves shall be installed outdoors at each building.

410.ane [Gas] Pressure level Regulators

A line pressure regulator shall be installed where the appliance is designed to operate at a lower pressure than the supply pressure. Line gas force per unit area regulators shall exist listed as complying with ANSI Z21.fourscore. Access shall be provided to pressure level regulators. Pressure regulators shall be protected from physical damage.

Regulators installed on the exterior of the building shall exist approved for outdoor installation.

410.2. (4) The MP [Gas] pressure regulator shall exist provided with access.

Where located indoors, the regulator shall be vented to the outdoors or shall be equipped with a leak-limiting device, in either instance complying with Section 410.iii.

and be sure to encounter

411.1 .8. Listed and labeled outdoor [Gas] appliance connectors in compliance with ANSI Z21.75 and installed in accord with the manufacturer's installation instructions.

Watch out: be certain to see the article series beginning at

Fill-in Electric GENERATORS because at that place are critical life-condom hazards when using a backup generator.

We had a quick connect added to our gas line for our generator. Information technology goes from the meter, to a ane"T, to 3/4" shutoff valve and and then a female quick connect that seals when disconnected.

When the generator is in use, it is connected to a natural gas hose with a regulator inline that automatically stops the gas when the engine stops.

I was told by a friend that we should non accept whatever temporary connections outside the house. Is this true? I've seen lots of grills and other generators hooked upward in the same manner.

@jerry,

I agree with you.

In addition to the gas meter clearance distances given in the page above, tell us who and where "DTE" is, (your country and metropolis of location might help), and let'southward see if we tin can observe DTE'due south own specifications for gas meter installations and clearance distances from various site features.

In improver, you and your neighbour should review GAS METER PROTECTION BOLLARDS

since in the event that the Amazon delivery truck rolls into the gas meter and sets off a gas leak and subsequent natural gas explosion, both homes and occupants could be in serious danger.

DTE installed a new meter on the side of my neighbors business firm which is about 16in. from my driveway this seems unsafe

@Stuart Glazer,

Please see the article: CLEARANCE DISTANCES FOR AIR CONDITIONER / Estrus PUMP COMPRESSOR / CONDENSER UNITS

and specifically the section on "Closest recommended clearance distances for A/C or Heat Pump Compressors". Let us know if you have more than questions.

what are the clearance requirements between a gas pool heater and electric A/C unit?

@John,

It'due south certainly possible that there could be an unsafe condition such as cables that are pulling on gas piping or cable routed. Then it could form an electrical short betwixt bodily electric wiring and the gas line, but in full general co-axial cables carrying Television set or Internet service are non electrically live and are not particularly hazardous.

It may be that you were describing sloppy work however.

Recently noticed Camcast cable inbound mother-in-laws house wrapped effectually the gas line. Is that ok ?

On 2021-05-12 - by (modern) - Rules for gas meter or gas piping clearance from electric wire or conduit

@Dj, thank you lot for the question about rules apropos gas and electrical lines crossing.

A gas line is immune to cross an electrical conduit.

If those are buried, digging around needs to be done by paw within 2 anxiety to avoid risk of impairment.

In whatsoever result it's your local building code compliance inspector who is the final legal potency and word on the question.

Hello,
Are there whatsoever codes against a natural gas line crossing an electrical service conduit. Thank you Dj

@Linda F Brison,

Most your questions I don't know the land and city of your location but in most cities a building permit would have been required along with some inspections to make sure that the Mechanicals are beingness handled correctly and safely.

Information technology also covers the pipe to the outside h2o for his unit. (photo attached). The comment below would not let me post ii images. Should at that place accept been a edifice permit or some kind of governmental inspection on this project. Thanks.

My neighbour has congenital a xxx ft x 14 physical patio. The concrete comes up to the gas meter (photo attached). This is a mobile dwelling park, and our units are shut together. He is a snowbird.

Was he supposed to have a edifice permit to construct this 30' x 14' concrete patio? It also covers the piping to the outside water for his unit of measurement. (photo attached). thanks.

thanks and then much for your insights!

On 2021-04-05 - by (modernistic) - gas line is allowed to cross an electric conduit.

@Chris,

Typically a gas line is allowed to cross an electric conduit. If those are buried the excavation around that needs to be washed by hand is within 2 feet to avoid gamble of harm. In any event it's your local building lawmaking compliance inspector who is the final legal say-so and word on the question.

Adding a exterior gas line for an outdoor grill. The line volition come up off the meter and run parallel to the house. I am also tapping into an exterior outlet to run electrical to the outdoor grill kitchen. I read the table where it calls for a 12" vertical clearance between gas and electric lines.

Electric will be housed inside conduit. The electric conduit volition intersect the gas line at a perpendicular bending. My question being, is it ok for the electric conduit to pass past the gas line and then that I can then bury the electric conduit 12" below the gas line that volition be more superficial to the surface, or are the lines non allowed to laissez passer each other that way? Thanks!

@LV, correct; as you'll see in the article above, a spigot or "hose bibb" should be at least two feet away from the gas meter, as measured in any direction.

Originally had concerns of the functionality of the water hose directly above the gas meter. Hose won't be able to connect.

Only at present will this be a safety effect? Does this mean that the water spigot needs to exist two feet away?

@Ajay, the piping gets reconnected by someone trained in making gas connections and thus fugitive leaks. So the connections are tested for leaks. The gas company may also desire to audit the installation.

person disconnects the outlet of a gas service meter from the house pipage , what must be done prior to turning on gas service meter ?

@Jross, your local building lawmaking inspector, plumbing inspector, and the gas company volition all desire to enforce gas meter clearance requirements;

Information technology is possible that no one will require your neighour to do a thing about the location of her gas meter hookup point until she or someone new wants to actually accept gas service (and thus a meter) installed at the building.

A lady just bought abandoned house next door.

I informed her I was building a argue effectually our property line which begins at the wood fence surface area. Gas company informed usa and her nigh the clearance issue for meters .

She told us she'd have her meters moved but gas crew said she took them aside and said she'd rather non pay to have them moved , is at that place anyway I tin can brand her move this meter so I can continue to build my fence on my property line

Working distances around the meter need to be maintained, as specified in the article higher up, Steve.

a 6 foot tall regulation cedar privacy fence is existence built. can I become in front of gas meter with a window in argue? or does it accept to exist on the out side of fence? and what distance is fence required to exist from gas meter?

To a higher place on this folio is a table titled

Gas Piping Clearance Distances

No surprise, you won't see "argue posts" listed as a gas pipage obstruction or code detail in the model building codes.

but in the tabular array I recommended yous'll find

Gas piping clearance underground to structure:

No contact, maintenance infinite, damage protected

1211.1.1 Clearances. Underground gas piping shall exist installed with sufficient clearance from whatsoever other underground structure to avoid contact therewith, to permit maintenance, and to protect against damage from proximity to other structures.

In addition, underground plastic piping shall be installed with sufficient clearance or shall be insulated from whatever source of rut then as to forestall the heat from impairing the serviceability of the pipe. [NFPA54: 7.1.one]

What's the minimum lateral altitude from a gas line tin I gear up a fence mail?

You'll plaster (or install gypsum board or drywall) for no less than the clearance and working distances behind the meter equally given in the commodity to a higher place.

I'one thousand trying to get gas turned on but was told I had to plaster wall where meter is located what's the min. Altitude on each side of meter needs to be covered n what are the materials that I can utilise being information technology's temporary

The published electrical clearances for gas meters are given in a tabular array above titled

Gas meter clearance distances to electrical panels & meters (outdoors)

Also see

Gas meter clearance to sources of ignition

A separate table titled

Gas Piping Clearance Distances

gives what'south published for the piping itself.

Delight take a expect, Marie.

The house were renting has a gas line in the basement with 120 5 cablevision sitting correct on top of it??? Is this dangerous?. I experience it's super unsafe and I'm non running my heater until I notice out. Can anybody answer my question please

On 2020-11-15 by (mod) -

Sure David, you tin can see the clearance distances to Windows and Doors in the tables to a higher place on this page

my gas meter is less so 3 ft from two windows is but over 3 ft from my door is located in driveway right next to house where i park my truck is prob 2 ft from it is any of this legal

Watch out: LPG unlike natural gas, is heavier than air and in still air conditions will pool and can explode.

Thanks for the discussion. We welcome your criticism, content suggestions, or questions.

I agree we should right whatsoever unsafe status, but what is safe in this case seems to be a matter of opinion. All of these gas regulators are outdoors and though the utility has a rule about their meters needing to be three feet from the regulator, the enforcement is spotty, especially in existing homes.

The only time I see information technology causing a problem is if the meter is taken out under load causing an arc and the gas from the regulator is somehow independent in the area, but how tin can it exist contained if it is outdoors?

" All portions of a gas utility distribution system up to the outlet of the meter are regulated by 49 CFR Role 192, under the U.S. Department of Transportation. These regulations crave a three-pes clearance from indoor meters to sources of ignition, but have no comparable requirement when the meter is located outdoors.

In that location is also misunderstanding about the term 'source of ignition.' Electrical equipment is a source of ignition if information technology creates an arc or spark during operation. Electric wiring and junction boxes, for instance, are not considered sources of ignition. Merely most switches, panelboards, relays, and other devices that can create an arc when operated are treated as ignition sources.

"The National Fuel Gas Code Handbook," in its discussion of the above cited gas meter clearance, states that electric meters (except those that contain switching relays) are not considered a source of ignition. In summary, the three-foot clearance cited in the National Fuel Gas Code is not straight applicable to the clearance betwixt gas and electric utility meters."
-https://www.ecmag.com/section/codes-standards/code-questions-and-answers

David

Building codes accept been around in some form for nearly 100 years but enforcement is always varied by town, individual inspector and for other reasons. I was non able to detect a specific appointment for New United mexican states'due south get-go building code adoption. Just yous tin certainly contact the NM regime to enquire directly:

Construction Industries Division
CID - Santa Fe
2550 Cerrillos Road - tertiary Flooring
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87505
(505) 476-4700

CID - Albuquerque
5500 San Antonio Dr. Suite F
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87109
(505) 222-9800

CID - Las Cruces
505 South Chief Street, Suite 103
Loretto Boondocks Center
Las Cruces, New Mexico 88001
(575) 524-6320

In my Opinion, if we discover an unsafe or poor construction do it commonly makes sense to correct it commencement and worry virtually grandfathering second.

Does anyone know when the 3' clearance from a "Gas meter regulator vent clearance to electric devices such as switches, electrical receptacles, ability disconnects" (and electric utility meters) came into outcome? Has it e'er been so? There are a lot of violations of this in Northern New United mexican states.

Was it just never enforced? When we connect solar to the grid or do a service upgrade they desire us to comply most times, although a lot of time information technology is "grandfathered in" too.

Brian

Perhaps I don't understand the situation correctly but it sounds to me as if the gas company is agreeing to do the expensive part of the repair which is moving the metre to where should be and replacing an hush-hush pipage that was leaking. I would be happy with that solution.

I live in Oklahoma. My local gas company came out today and said we had a leak in the k. They so turned off the gas and told the states they would not turn it back on until it was stock-still. Their "solution" was to move my gas meter from the property line to upwards against the house and they would take care of everything to the meter.

All I had to practise was have an to a higher place footing connection point. This would involved drilling a pigsty in the wall into the clamber space. If we did not go along with them, then they would not plow the gas back on. I just take two appliances using gas.

The oven/stove, which I could catechumen to electrical, and the fundamental heat, which was merely replaced 3 years ago.

I experience like I am getting scammed or at least taken advantage of here. I contacted the retired operations manager for the gas company and he said it was code to movement it to the house. I can't find anything that says that. I need some answers. Winter is coming and I don't desire to shell out another $5000 just to switch out my central heat and air.

On 2020-09-16 by (mod) - Baby-sit Fencing over exposed gas lines

You won't notice such an explicit specific situation in the model nor the CA GAS CODES.

https://upward.codes/viewer/california/ca-plumbing-code-2016/chapter/12/fuel-gas-pipe#12

Is there a code in California that requires fence/guarding over exposed gas lines to not be easily attainable, to be accessed by authorized personal only? Run across Fastened Photo..

Justin

I certainly find that a inexplainable claim myself. It'southward possible that the inspector was trying to tell y'all that there is an electrical basis missing for the gas pipage or meter. Yous need to ask him to speak more than clearly in a manner that a human being tin understand

Our gas company recently replaced our meter and upon reconnecting constitute a leak. We replaced all the gas line to our house.

When it came time for city inspection nosotros were told it failed because the gas meter needed to be connected to the electrical meter. Has anyone heard of this before?

Steve

We have nerveless a number of mobile home codes and standards at

MOBILE Dwelling CODES & STANDARDS

found past searching InspectApedia.com for "mobile abode codes"

But your *local* building code compliance inspector is the last legal authorization on clearance distances for gas (what - pipage, meters, appliances?) and electric components (meter, service drop, etc). - so y'all will want to note the country and city of location of the mobile home park and and then contact your local building section too.

Tin I go the codes and distances for gas and electric box in a mobile home park.

On 2020-05-25 past (mod) - Gas meter clearance altitude to domestic or residential water heater

Thanks for the question, Steve.

Gas meter clearance distance to domestic or residential h2o heater:

Using the "altitude to sources of ignition" table in the article higher up I'd figure 3 ft. PLUS any additional working space required past either the meter or the water heater.

Here's an excerpt;

At least iii feet, per NEC 110-26 & NFPA 54-National Fuel Gas Lawmaking for premises-endemic gas meters.

How close to the gas meter can i legally install a h2o heater? Both would be outdoors in a well ventilated surface area.

That's non a specification that I've been able to find, John.

In a applied sense an Stance might be, sufficiently separated and so that no vibration or contact with sharp edges or materials could damage the gas line.

How far from gas supply line to. Bathroom vent fan. , Residential bath new construction. , Washigton State

A gas meter in a ceiling cavity audio questionable, dangerous, probably illegal to me, Eric.

That location may violate the required working space, ventilation to the outdoors, and thus likewise be dangerous.

In other words, if the installer is putting the gas meter in such a cramped space that it has to be installed horizontally (on its side) rather than upright, it's doubtful that the installation follows the recommendations of your gas supplier nor the fuel-gas lawmaking for your state and city.

Indoor gas meter installations are more often than not not-recommended though local officials in your country-urban center may permit that.

In that case the meter must be vented to the outdoors.

Meters, when set up inside, volition be installed immediately side by side to and in the same room where the gas service line enters the building.

All gas meters volition be placed where they will be easily accessible, not exposed to extreme estrus sources and located at least 3 anxiety from any ignition source, electrical panel or electrical meter.

If the meter and regulator are located in a partially excavated space under a edifice, they volition be attainable through an opening in the outside wall not less than 36 inches high by 36 inches wide. (QGCSP two-76-01) (CFR 192.353) (NFGC 5.7.2.iii)

Meters are to be located in ventilated spaces attainable for exam, reading, replacement and maintenance. (NFGC 5.7.2.1)

In a medium ascent residential apartment edifice (17 stories) where the gas meter is installed in the ceiling may said meter be installed in an other than vertical position?

Gilbert

Model codes too as your local building inspector will near certainly require ane or more protective bollards installed such that it becomes impossible to drive directly into the meter.

Although I run into a piping muzzle built around meter it appears to me that that would not be adequate no accepted by whatsoever competent building inspector.

See details at PROTECTION BOLLARDS for MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT

My gas meter is located at the side corner of my house, which is as well the driveway of my side by side door neughbor. Recently, i noticed my neighbour park his truck close to my gas meter with the tail piping facing my meter. What does the laws take on this?

Jeff the gas piping distances we know from codes & standards are in the article above in the table titled

Gas meter needing repairs Gas Meter & Piping Clearance Altitude Codes & Specifications

Beyond that information technology'due south up to your local code inspector.

In my Stance while I certainly don't like a gas pipage or anything else rubbing confronting the heating organisation exhaust flue, it'd exist a gas leak or pipage damage that'd be the first concern.

I am asking well-nigh a black fe gas line in a basement is this pipe allowed to touch a furnace single wall frazzle pipe

Sure, the clearances are given in the article above. Including to doorways.

Local codes may vary from the national or model codes cited here.

thanks for the response! The original design is to supervene upon the window in the photograph with a door and bring access to the centre of the house (of grade where the meter is located) instead of far to the left.

Will the distance from the meter to the door be some other issue I need to look at? Merely to be 100% clear.. the meter has to be 3' abroad from any door or window?

Conrad if you tin run into this specification you lot'll be in compliance:

Distance from gas meter or regulator to a window: 3 feet in any management horizontally or vertically to the feature

Hi -- I would like to add a front uncovered porch direct next to the gas meter (see photo).. If I built a bench and pop out department giving 3' clearance would I accept whatsoever issues?

Conrad

Ernie

In the article to a higher place see the details most gas meter clearances to electrical components in the table titled

Gas Piping Clearance Distances

You lot'll come across that ordinary circuit wiring isn't considered an ignition source just panels are.

need to run electrical line from billow box to sub panel outside to entry spot in foundation there is a gas line already there can I run the enclosed wire next to gas line what would be the min distance from gas line?

Bill, That'due south not a constraint I've seen, ... so as long as you're non obstructing the egress in any style I'd await your lawmaking officer will be ok with the routing

Can a residential gas line pass over a basement egress window next to the wall or must it be buried
at some distance around the window well?

Most likely yes, Terry BUT the meter might need protection bollards if it's in an area where it could be run-into by my female parent or a similar driver.

Can gas meter stick out from a corner

...

Continue reading at GAS PIPING CLEARANCES, CODES & DEFECTS, or select a topic from the closely-related manufactures below, or see the complete Commodity INDEX.

Or see GAS METER CLEARANCE Altitude FAQs - questions and answers posted originally on this page

Or see these

Recommended Articles

• ELECTRICAL WIRE CLEARANCE FROM DUCTS & PIPES
• GAS APPLIANCE CONVERT LP-to-NATURAL GAS
• GAS LP & NATURAL GAS Prophylactic HAZARDS
• GAS METERS - home
  • GAS METER CLEARANCE DISTANCES
  • GAS METER CODES & STANDARDS
  • GAS METER PROTECTION BOLLARDS
• GAS Pipe, VALVES, CONTROLS - home
• GAS PIPING CLEARANCES, CODES & DEFECTS
• GAS PRESSURES LP vs NATURAL GAS
• GAS REGULATORS & Apparatus / HEATER CONTROLS - home, Natural Gas regulators & appliance regulators, NG & LP
• GAS REGULATORS for LP TANKS - home, LPG / Propane systems
• GAS TANKS LP / PROPANE

Suggested citation for this web page

GAS METER CLEARANCE DISTANCES at InspectApedia.com - online encyclopedia of building & ecology inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, & problem prevention advice.

Or see this

Index to RELATED Articles: Article INDEX to GAS APPLIANCES, Piping, CONTROLS

Or apply the SEARCH BOX found below to Ask a Question or Search InspectApedia

...

Ask a Question or Search InspectApedia

Try the search box just beneath, or if you lot prefer, mail service a question or annotate in the Comments box below and we will respond promptly.

Search the InspectApedia website

Annotation: appearance of your Comment below may be delayed: if your comment contains an prototype, spider web link, or text that looks to the software as if it might be a spider web link, your posting will appear after information technology has been approved by a moderator. Apologies for the delay.

Technical Reviewers & References

Click to Show or Hide Citations & References

Publisher InspectApedia.com - Daniel Friedman

How Far From Gas Meter To Service,

Source: https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Gas_Meter_Clearances.php

Posted by: dickwaye1987.blogspot.com

Share this post