Seismic Gas Shutoff: Altadena vs Los Angeles
How do seismic gas shutoff rules compare between Altadena, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Altadena has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Title 30 (Residential Code) and Title 28 (Plumbing) require an automatic seismic gas shutoff valve on any new or substantially remodeled residence with natural gas service. Existing homes have no retrofit mandate.
View full Altadena rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC §94.1217.0 requires seismic gas shutoff valves (SGSOV) or excess flow shutoff valves on all buildings with gas piping permitted on or after September 1, 1995. Valves are also required when commercial alterations exceed $10,000, when gas meters are altered, and within 12 months of any property sale. Valves must carry a 30-year warranty and be maintained for the life of the building.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | LA County Code Title 30 R301.1.4 | - |
| New Construction | Required | - |
| Remodel Trigger | >$10,000 | - |
| Existing Homes | No retrofit mandate | - |
| Code | - | LAMC §94.1217.0 |
| Effective | - | September 1, 1995 |
| Sale Requirement | - | Install within 12 months |
| Commercial Trigger | - | Alterations >$10,000 |
| Warranty | - | 30-year minimum |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Do I need an earthquake gas shutoff valve in Altadena?
Only if you build new or do a remodel over $10,000 that triggers a plumbing permit — LA County Code Title 30.
Los Angeles FAQ
Do I need a seismic gas shutoff valve to sell my home in Los Angeles?
Yes. LAMC §94.1217.0 requires installation within 12 months of any property sale, including individual condo units. This applies to all buildings with gas piping, regardless of when they were built.
How much does a seismic gas shutoff valve cost in LA?
Typical installation runs $300-$700 including the plumbing permit from LADBS. The valve must carry a 30-year warranty and be maintained for the life of the building.
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