Gas meter clearance & piping distances & gas meter dimensions:

This article provides a detailed table of example clearance distance specifications for natural gas meter installations, giving the distances to various building features such as 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 as well as commercial gas meters for both LP and natural gas.

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

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

Notes to the Table Above

1. These are typical gas meter clearance distances to various building features, but keep in mind however that this list is not exhaustive. Local building code requirements for safe distances from a gas meter or gas meter vent vary, depending on where you live, and are also different between the U.S. and Canada. Be sure to check with your local building or plumbing code officials.

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Notes to the table above:

See more details at

• ELECTRIC METER CLEARANCE DISTANCES & WORKING SPACE

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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

Question by Garry - how big will the gas meter be if I install a higher capacity meter?

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

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

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

Reply: On 2017-07-01 by (mod) Typical Gas Meter Overall Dimensions for gas meters of various capacities

Garry:

I'd apply the clearance distance to all equipment since both safety and working space are requirements around the gas meter.

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

• 8.8" (224mm) wide, 8.7" (221 mm) deep, and 12.7" (323 mm) high - 250 CFH at 1/2" W.C. Differential - Residential
• 10.3" (262mm) wide, 10.0" (254mm) deep, and 15.0" (381mm) high - 425 CFH at 1/2" W.C. Differential - Residential
• 10.6" (269mm) wide, 10.0" (254mm) deep, and 15.0 (381mm) high - 630 CFH at 1/2" W.C. Differential - Commercial
• 14.62" (372mm) wide, 16.62" (422mm) deep, and 23.94" (608 mm) high - AL-1000 - 1000 CFH at 7" W.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

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Gas Meter & Gas Piping Installation Information Sources, Codes & Standards

• American Gas Association, Tel: 202-824-7000 Website: https://www.aga.org/
• ANSI B109 "Rotary Type Gas Displacement Meters", available from http://webstore.ansi.org/ [Natural Gas]
• Alberta, Canada, GAS METER CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS for ALBERTA [PDF] ATCO, ATCOenergy, ATCO Park : 5302 Forand Street S.W. Calgary, AB Canada,
  1-844-687-2826 Natural Gas Emergency 1-800-511-3447 - Electricity Emergency 1-800-668-5506
  Excerpt citing additional Canadian codes:
  The installation of the meter, regulator, house line and secondary service lines must conform to the following codes and standards:
  Alberta Building Code
  CAN/CSA-Z662
  CAN/CSA-B149.1
  The Alberta Safety Codes Act
  The Alberta Gas Code Regulations
• BGE GAS & ELECTRIC INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS [PDF] BGE, Baltimore Gas & Electric Co.
  
• California, UNIFORM 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, USA, 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, electric meter and other building features.
  
• GAS METER PROTECTION BOLLARDS - protect from damage by vehicles
• EC Magazine, "Code Questions & Answers", (February 2000 Q&A discussing August 1999 magazine issue) Electrical Contractor Magazine, 3 Bethesda Metro Center, Suite 1100 Bethesda, MD 20814 USA Tel: 301.657.3110 Website: http://www.ecmag.com/
• GAS METER CODES & STANDARDS
• GAS PIPING CLEARANCES, CODES & DEFECTS
• Maryland, USA, BGE GAS & ELECTRIC INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS [PDF] BGE, Baltimore Gas & Electric Co. at inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Gas-Electric-Installation-Requirements-BGE.pdf
  
• 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 piping requirements. Readers have raised clearance questions that were not necessarily detailed in the model standards or codes - many of these have been clarified by local authorities so we like to add those as well. Quoting from the AGA:
  
  The American Gas Association servers as the secretariat to the ANSI Accredited Standards Committee (ASC) Z223 on National Fuel Gas Code. The ASC Z223 develops and publishes ANSI Z223.1, National Fuel Gas Code.
  
  The Code is jointly developed with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 54 Committee and is also known as NFPA 54. 2012 Edition National Fuel Gas Code
• NSTAR GAS & ELECTRIC INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS [PDF] NSTAR
• PG&E, ELECTRIC & GAS SERVICE REQUIREMENTS [PDF] (2017-2018, TD-7001M, GREENBOOK, Gas meter & electric meter installation manual, Website: www.pge.com/greenbook
• PG&E, GAS DESIGN & GAS METER LOCATIONS [PDF], (2013), Pacific Gas & Electric Company
• PG&E ELECTRIC & GAS METER CLEARANCES [PDF] and electric service requirements
• PG&E 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-manual-online/greenbook_manual_full.pdf also available here at
• Puget Sound Energy Inc's 2014 GAS METER CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS, [PDF] retrieved 8/19/2014, - original source: https://pse.com/accountsandservices/Construction/Documents/3885.pdf
• PSE&G, GAS APPLIANCE and GAS PIPING [PDF], (2021), PSE&G Construction, New Jersey, USA, TEl: 800-722-0256, retrieved 2023/07/07, original source: nj.pseg.com/-/media/pseg/global/gathercontentdocuments/7-2-1upgradesandnewinstallationsnew/gas_appliances_gas_piping.ashx
• PSE&G, GAS APPLIANCE SAFETY [PDF] PSE&G Construction, New Jersey, USA, retrieved 2023/07/07, original source nj.pseg.com/safetyandreliability/gassafety/gasappliances
• 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 2021/09/3 original source: https://www.pse.com/-/media/Feature/PSE/Construction-Service/Technical-Resource-Documents/Clearances-Service-Lines-Meter-Locations/Gas-Meter-Clearances-and-Service-Installation-Requirements.pdf
• Puget Sound Energy Inc's 2014 gas meter clearance specifications, retrieved 8/19/2014, - original source: https://pse.com/accountsandservices/Construction/Documents/3885.pdf
• Questar Gas, "GOOD PRACTICES FOR GAS PIPING AND APPLIANCE INSTALLATIONS" [PDF] (2015) Questar Gas, now Dominion Energy, Website: https://www.dominionenergy.com/, - retrieved 2017/11/12, original source: https://www.questargas.com/brochures/59060_401.pdf
• SOCAL, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA GAS SERVICE GUIDEBOOK [PDF] (2013) - original source: http://www.socalgas.com/documents/construction/GasServiceGuidebook.pdf

Uniform Plumbing Code for Outdoor Gas Piping

404.7 Above-Ground Outdoor [Gas] Piping

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

CSST systems shall be protected in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. Where passing through an outside wall, the piping shall also be protected against corrosion by 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.

404.13 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) above them.

The outlet fitting or piping shall be securely supported.

Outlets shall not 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 building, shutoff valves shall be installed outdoors at each building.

410.1 [Gas] Pressure 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 pressure regulators shall be listed as complying with ANSI Z21.80. Access shall be provided to pressure regulators.

Pressure regulators shall be protected from physical damage.

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

410.2. (4) The MP [Gas] pressure regulator shall be 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 case complying with Section 410.3.

and be sure to see

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

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

BACKUP ELECTRICAL GENERATORS because there are critical life-safety hazards when using a backup generator.

Continuing with gas plumbing/piping codes & gas meter codes

• U.S. Energy Information Administration - eia.doe.gov/
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - epa.gov/solar/energy-and-you/affect/natural-gas.html
• Washington Gas Light Co., GAS METER & REGULATOR CLEARANCES, CONTRACTOR GUIDELINES [PDF] Washington Gas, WGL, 6801 Industrial Road, Springfield VA 22151, Website: www.washingtongas.com retrieved 2017/11/12 original source: https://www.washingtongas.com/-/media/94c5206d9d314f0cb0fbc157f0c53eb2.pdf
• At Natural Gas.Org www.naturalgas.org/environment/naturalgas.asp#emission you’ll find a table of combustion products
• At geocities.com/rainforest/6847/report1.html is an interesting and detailed though not “neutral” report on the components and contaminants in the combustion of natural gas. You’ll see 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 exhaust 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 Technology. 4th ed., vol. 12. New York: John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 1993.
• Tussing, Arlon R., & Bob Tippee. The Natural Gas Industry: Evolution, Structure, and Economics. 2nd ed. Tulsa, OK: PennWell Publishing, 1995.
• "HOW to READ ELECTRIC & NATURAL GAS METERS", [PDF] U.S. DOE original source: www.energysavers.gov/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=13120?print

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Canadian Gas Meter Codes, Clearance Distances & Regulations

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 above.

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

"There must be a minimum of three feet (0.9m) separation between any part of the gas meter/regulation installation and any sources of ignition (i.e. open flames, electrical panels, switches, meters.)"

- Source:

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

- Alberta's ATCO who in turn cite:

The installation of the meter, regulator, house line and secondary service lines must conform to the following codes and standards:
Alberta Building Code
CAN/CSA-Z662
CAN/CSA-B149.1
The Alberta Safety 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://www.canadianchimney.com/​

[Click to enlarge any image]

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British Columbia Gas Codes

For BC, Canada gas meter clearances also see

• British Columbia INFORMATION BULLETIN NO: B-G5 051206 4, CLEARANCE TO METER REGULATOR VENTS [PDF] BC Safety Authority, retrieved 2021/09/23 original source: https://www.technicalsafetybc.ca/sites/default/files/B-G5-051206%204%20-%20Clearances%20to%20Meter%20Regulator%20Vents.pdf
  
  There are a number of instances in the CSA B149.1 Natural gas and Propane Installation Code 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 note that building opening means
  any building opening, such as an openable door or window and not just 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 Short Close Ladysmith, BC ​V9G 1A7 Canada, (250)800-2251 canadianchimney.com/​

National Canada Gas Codes & Standards

• See: Electricity and Gas Inspection Regulations (SOR/86-131) at aws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-86-131/index.html

Ontario Gas & Gas Meter Codes

• Ontario, Canada, CLEARANCE DISTANCES: ELECTRIC ARC SOURCES to GAS EQUIPMENT - ONTARIO [PDF] in Ontario Electrical Safety Code, Bulletin 2-10-13 Electrical 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 2-326 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 code”, 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 electrical equipment which is considered a source of ignition includes, but 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 interpretation is consistent with the rules concerning the use of electrical equipment in Class 1 Zone 2 locations.
  
  Meter bases, conventional mechanical meters and conventional smart meters are not a source of ignition, and are permitted to be 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 be 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 authority.
  

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Reader Q&A - also see RECOMMENDED ARTICLES & FAQs

On 2021-09-23 by (mod)

Please see

CANADA GAS METER CODES & CLEARANCE DISTANCES

On 2021-09-23 by Dale

COMMENT: Hello, the clearance distance for gas meters from shrubs or trees listed on this website, Is this regulations for BC or all provinces?

On 2021-08-02 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod) - How does a building wall count in gas meter clearance distance to electric meter or panel?"

@Marc,

Thank you for a helpful gas meter clearance distance 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; you'll see all the gas to electrical component clearance distances I could find given above 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 it's solid masonry; I would think that we'd care about the wall construction materials, and about how well any wall penetrations are sealed.

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

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

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

See

• PG&E GREEN BOOK 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/green book_manual_full.pdf

[Click any image to see more details]

See our more-complete collection of model gas meter codes & clearance distance regulations at

GAS METER CODES & REGULATIONS

On 2021-08-02 by Marc

My residential gas meter is located outdoors, adjacent to my garage wall.

My electrical circuit breaker panel is located WITHIN the garage, immediately on the other side of the same wall.

Inasmuch as the meter and electrical panel are completely separated by the noted wall, are there any minimum clearance regulations that apply?

On 2021-07-10 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod)

@Sandi,

Your gas company and plumbing inspector usually will want the gas meter and its vent to be outdoors; on occasion an inspector might permit it to remain indoors provided its vent is piped to the building exterior.

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

See GAS PIPING CLEARANCES, CODES & DEFECTS

On 2021-07-10 by Sandi

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

On 2021-06-29 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod) - Unsafe gas generator hookup & codes on clearances for temporary outdoor gas connections, shutoff valves, piping

@Cb,

I have not found a national gas code discussion of "temporary" gas piping connection valves and shutoffs, and I agree 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 by a licensed plumber (or is permitted by others in your jurisdiction) and, of course, that the proper and safe devices and fittings are used.

Watch out: the installation in your photo looks quite dangerous 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 flow 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's not clear in your photo but your gas delivery to the generator may need an additional gas pressure regulator to step down from the incoming pressure from the primary regulator at the meter.

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

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

Examples:

See details that address your question in the

Uniform Plumbing Code for Outdoor Gas Piping in our section

GAS METER CODES & REGULATIONS

On 2021-06-29 by Cb

We had a quick connect added to our gas line for our generator. It goes from the meter, to a 1"T, to 3/4" shutoff valve 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 not have any temporary connections outside the house. Is this true? I've seen lots of grills and other generators hooked up in the same fashion.

On 2021-06-22 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod)

@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 city of location might help), and let's see if we can find DTE's own specifications for gas meter installations and clearance distances from various site features.

In addition, 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.

On 2021-06-22 by jerry

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

On 2021-06-01 by mak.church (mod)

@Stuart Glazer,

Please see the article: CLEARANCE DISTANCES FOR AIR CONDITIONER / HEAT 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 questions.

On 2021-06-01 by Stuart Glazer

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

On 2021-05-24 - by (mod) -

@John,

It's certainly possible that there could be an unsafe condition such as cables that are pulling on gas piping or cable routed. So it could form an electrical short between actual electrical wiring and the gas line, but in general co-axial cables carrying TV or Internet service are not electrically live and are not particularly hazardous.

It may be that you were describing sloppy work however.

On 2021-05-19 by John

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

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

@Dj, thank you for the question about rules concerning gas and electric lines crossing.

A gas line is allowed to cross an electrical conduit.

If those are buried, digging around needs to be done by hand within 2 feet to avoid risk of damage.

In any event it's your local building code compliance inspector who is the final legal authority and word on the question.

On 2021-05-12 by Dj - codes against a natural gas line crossing an electrical service conduit ?

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

 

On 2021-04-18 - by (mod) -

@Linda F Brison,

About your questions I don't know the country 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 being handled correctly and safely.

On 2021-04-18 by Linda F Brison

It also covers the piping to the outside water for his unit. (photo attached). The comment below would not let me post two images. Should there have been a building permit or some kind of governmental inspection on this project. Thanks.

My neighbor has built a 30 ft x 14 concrete patio. The concrete comes up to the gas meter (photo attached). This is a mobile home park, and our units are close together. He is a snowbird.

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

On 2021-04-05 by Chris

thanks so much for your insights!

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

@Chris,

Typically a gas line is allowed to cross an electrical conduit. If those are buried the digging around that needs to be done by hand is within 2 feet to avoid risk of damage. In any event it's your local building code compliance inspector who is the final legal authority and word on the question.

On 2021-04-05 by Chris

Adding a exterior gas line for an outdoor grill. The line will come 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 electrical lines.

Electrical will be housed inside conduit. The electrical conduit will intersect the gas line at a perpendicular angle. My question being, is it ok for the electrical conduit to pass by the gas line so that I can then bury the electrical conduit 12" below the gas line that will be more superficial to the surface, or are the lines not allowed to pass each other that way? Thanks!

On 2021-03-31 - by (mod) - 2 ft. required clearance distance of gas meter to hose hook-up

@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.

On 2021-03-31 by LV

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

But now will this be a safety issue? Does this mean that the water spigot needs to be two feet away?

On 2021-03-17 - by (mod) -

@Ajay, the piping gets reconnected by someone trained in making gas connections and thus avoiding leaks. Then the connections are tested for leaks. The gas company may also want to inspect the installation.

On 2021-03-17 by Ajay

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

On 2021-03-31 - by (mod) - required clearance of gas meter to fence or property line

@Jross, your local building code inspector, plumbing inspector, and the gas company will all want to enforce gas meter clearance requirements;

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

Your personal effort to "make her move her gas meter" may not be the best approach. Start with your local building officials.

Watch out: And meanwhile, never build or add to a property something that would violate building codes, particularly where there would be a life-safety hazard.

That gas meter location might meet the 3 ft. minimum clearance distance to the electric meters, but it would certainly be too close to the building window.

On 2021-03-06 by Jross

A lady just bought abandoned house next door.

I informed her I was building a fence around our property line which begins at the wood fence area. Gas company informed us and her about 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 not pay to have them moved , is there anyway I can make her move this meter so I can continue to build my fence on my property line

On 2021-02-19 - by (mod) -

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

On 2021-02-19 by steve doulton

a 6 foot tall regulation cedar privacy fence is being built. can I go in front of gas meter with a window in fence? or does it have to be on the out side of fence? and what distance is fence required to be from gas meter?

On 2021-02-11 by (mod) - minimum lateral distance from a gas line can I set a fence post?

Above on this page is a table titled

Gas Piping Clearance Distances

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

but in the table I recommended you'll find

Gas piping clearance underground to structure:

No contact, maintenance space, damage protected

1211.1.1 Clearances. Underground gas piping shall be installed with sufficient clearance from any other underground structure to avoid contact therewith, to allow 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 any source of heat so as to prevent the heat from impairing the serviceability of the pipe. [NFPA54: 7.1.1]

On 2021-02-11 by snip

What's the minimum lateral distance from a gas line can I set a fence post?

On 2021-02-02 - by (mod) -

You'll plaster (or install gypsum board or drywall) for no less than the clearance and working distances behind the meter as given in the article above.

On 2021-02-02 by Anonymous

I’m trying to get gas turned on but was told I had to plaster wall where meter is located what’s the min. Distance on each side of meter needs to be covered n what are the materials that I can use being it’s temporary

On 2020-12-18 - by (mod) - Gas meter clearance to sources of ignition

The published electrical clearances for gas meters are given in a table 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's published for the piping itself.

Please take a look, Marie.

On 2020-12-18 by Marie

The house were renting has a gas line in the basement with 120 V cable sitting right on top of it??? Is this dangerous?. I feel it’s super unsafe and I’m not running my heater until I find out. Can anybody answer my question please

On 2020-11-15 by (mod) - gas meter is less then 3 ft from 2 windows

Sure David, you can see the clearance distances to Windows and Doors in the tables above on this page

On 2020-11-15 0 by david

my gas meter is less then 3 ft from 2 windows is just 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

On 2020-11-04 by (mod) - LP gas danger outdoors

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.

On 2020-11-04 by Anonymous

I agree we should correct any unsafe condition, 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 3 feet from the regulator, the enforcement is spotty, especially in existing homes.

The only time I see it causing a problem is if the meter is taken out under load causing an arc and the gas from the regulator is somehow contained in the area, but how can it be 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 Part 192, under the U.S. Department of Transportation. These regulations require a three-foot clearance from indoor meters to sources of ignition, but have no comparable requirement when the meter is located outdoors.

There is also misunderstanding about the term 'source of ignition.' Electrical equipment is a source of ignition if it creates an arc or spark during operation. Electric wiring and junction boxes, for instance, are not considered sources of ignition. But 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 incorporate switching relays) are not considered a source of ignition. In summary, the three-foot clearance cited in the National Fuel Gas Code is not directly applicable to the clearance between gas and electric utility meters."
-https://www.ecmag.com/section/codes-standards/code-questions-and-answers

On 2020-10-26 - by (mod) -

David

Building codes have been around in some form for nearly 100 years but enforcement is always varied by town, individual inspector and for other reasons. I was not able to find a specific date for New Mexico's first building code adoption. But you can certainly contact the NM authorities to ask directly:

Construction Industries Division
CID - Santa Fe
2550 Cerrillos Road - 3rd Floor
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 Main Street, Suite 103
Loretto Town Center
Las Cruces, New Mexico 88001
(575) 524-6320


In my OPINION, if we find an unsafe or poor construction practice it usually makes sense to correct it first and worry about grandfathering second.

On 2020-10-2 by David

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

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

On 2020-09-18 by Anonymous

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 underground pipe that was leaking. I would be happy with that solution.

On 2020-09-17 by Brian

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

All I had to do was have an above ground connection point. This would involved drilling a hole in the wall into the crawl space. If we did not go along with them, then they would not turn the gas back on. I only have two appliances using gas.

The oven/stove, which I could convert to electric, and the central heat, which was just replaced three years ago.

I feel 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 move it to the house. I can't find anything that says that. I need some answers. Winter is coming and I don't want to shell out another $5000 just to switch out my central heat and air.

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

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

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

On 2020-09-15 by Anonymous

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

On 2020-06-25 - by (mod) - the gas meter needed to be connected to the electric meter?

Justin

I certainly find that a baffling claim myself. It's possible that the inspector was trying to tell you that there is an electrical ground missing for the gas piping or meter. You need to ask him to speak more clearly in a way that a human being can understand

On 2020-06-22 by Justin

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

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

On 2020-05-27 - by (mod) - codes and distances for gas and electric box in a mobile home park.

Steve

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

MOBILE HOME CODES & STANDARDS

found by searching InspectApedia.com for "mobile home codes"

But your *local* building code compliance inspector is the final legal authority on clearance distances for gas (what - piping, meters, appliances?) and electrical components (meter, service drop, etc). - so you will want to note the country and city of location of the mobile home park and then contact your local building department too.

On 2020-05-27 by Steve

Can I get the codes and distances for gas and electric box in a mobile home park.

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

Thanks for the question, Steve.

Gas meter clearance distance to domestic or residential water heater:

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

Here's an excerpt;

At least 3 feet, per NEC 110-26 & NFPA 54-National Fuel Gas Code for premises-owned gas meters.

On 2020-05-25 by Steve Parsons

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

On 2020-05-14 - by (mod) - How far from gas supply line to. Bathroom vent fan?

That's not a specification that I've been able to find, John.

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

On 2020-05-14 by John Wallace

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

On 2020-03-18 - by (mod) - gas meter in a ceiling cavity

A gas meter in a ceiling cavity sound questionable, unsafe, probably illegal to me, Eric.

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

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 code for your country and city.

Indoor gas meter installations are generally not-recommended though local officials in your country-city may permit that.

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

Meters, when set inside, will be installed immediately adjacent to and in the same room where the gas service line enters the building.

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

If the meter and regulator are located in a partially excavated space under a building, they will be accessible through an opening in the outside wall not less than 36 inches high by 36 inches wide. (QGCSP 2-76-01) (CFR 192.353) (NFGC 5.7.2.3)

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

On 2020-03-17 by Eric bennett

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

On 2020-02-26 - by (mod) - my neighbor parks very close to my gas meter

Gilbert

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

Although I see a pipe cage built around meter it appears to me that that would not be adequate no accepted by any competent building inspector.

See details at PROTECTION BOLLARDS for MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT

On 2020-02-26 by Gilbert

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

On 2020-02-05 - by (mod) - gas piping distances we know from codes & standards

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 Distance Codes & Specifications

Beyond that it's up to your local code inspector.

In my OPINION while I certainly don't like a gas pipe or anything else rubbing against the heating system exhaust flue, it'd be a gas leak or pipe damage that'd be the first concern.

On 2020-02-05 by Jeff

I am asking about a black iron gas line in a basement is this pipe allowed to touch a furnace single wall exhaust pipe

On 2020-01-07 by (mod) - gas meter clearances when building a porch over a gas meter

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

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

On 2020-01-07 by Conrad K

thanks for the response! The original design is to replace the window in the photo with a door and bring access to the middle of the house (of course where the meter is located) instead of far to the left.

Will the distance from the meter to the door be another issue I need to look at? Just to be 100% clear.. the meter has to be 3' away from any door or window?

On 2020-01-06 by (mod) - Distance from gas meter or regulator to a window

Conrad if you can meet this specification you'll be in compliance:

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

On 2020-01-06 by Conrad K

Hi -- I would like to add a front uncovered porch directly adjacent to the gas meter (see photo).. If I built a bench and pop out section giving 3' clearance would I have any issues?

Conrad

On 2019-11-19 by (mod) -

Ernie

In the article above see the details about gas meter clearances to electrical components in the table titled

Gas Piping Clearance Distances

You'll see that ordinary circuit wiring isn't considered an ignition source but panels are.

On 2019-11-19 by ernie

need to run electric line from breaker 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?

On 2019-10-20 by (mod) -

Bill, That's not a constraint I've seen, ... so as long as you're not obstructing the egress in any way I'd expect your code officer will be ok with the routing

On 2019-10-20 by Bill Fallesen

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?

On 2019-09-23 by (mod) -

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 mother or a similar driver.

On 2019-09-22 by Terry

Can gas meter stick out from a corner

 

...

Continue reading at GAS PIPING CLEARANCES, CODES & DEFECTS, or select a topic from the closely-related articles below,Replace with (MAYBE - CHECK EACH ONE) or select a topic from the closely-related articles below, or see the complete ARTICLE INDEX.

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

Or see these

Recommended Articles

• ELECTRIC PANEL WORKING SPACE
• ELECTRIC METER CLEARANCE DISTANCES & WORKING SPACE
• ELECTRICAL WIRE CLEARANCE FROM DUCTS & PIPES
• GAS APPLIANCE CONVERT LP-to-NATURAL GAS
• GAS LP & NATURAL GAS SAFETY HAZARDS
• GAS METERS - home
  • GAS METER CODES & CLEARANCE DISTANCES
  • GAS METER CODES & STANDARDS
  • GAS METER PROTECTION BOLLARDS
• GAS PIPING, VALVES, CONTROLS - home
• GAS PIPING CLEARANCES, CODES & DEFECTS - home
• GAS REGULATORS & APPLIANCE / HEATER CONTROLS - home, Natural Gas regulators & appliance regulators, NG & LP
• GAS REGULATORS for LP TANKS - home, LPG / Propane systems
• PROTECTION BOLLARDS for MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT

Suggested citation for this web page

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

Or see this

INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES: ARTICLE INDEX to GAS APPLIANCES, PIPING, CONTROLS

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