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Anaheim, CA Earthquake Safety: Seismic Gas Shutoff (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Key Facts

Requirement
Required on new construction and $10,000+ remodels
Requirement
CA Health and Safety Code 19200-19205
Requirement
CA Plumbing Code 1210.1.4 installation standard
Requirement
Must be listed by IAS, UL, or approved agency
Requirement
Installed on customer side of the gas meter

Summary

California Health and Safety Code 19200 through 19205 and the California Plumbing Code require seismic gas shutoff valves when a building is newly constructed or undergoes a substantial addition or alteration over 10,000 dollars. Anaheim enforces these standards through the Planning and Building Department at permit issuance.

19200. The Legislature finds and declares that existing law does not require that any new seismic gas shutoff valve sold by any person in this state shall, prior to sale, be certified by the State Architect.

Source: California Health and Safety Code 19200View official code

Full Breakdown

4 magnitude at the location) or when the line senses a sudden pressure drop from a broken pipe. 4 requires installation of a listed (ASCE 25 or equivalent) seismic shutoff valve on new buildings and on existing buildings when alteration, remodel, or addition work exceeds 10,000 dollars in valuation at a single site over any 12-month period. The valve must be listed by IAS, UL, or a similar approved agency and installed on the customer side of the gas meter (or at the meter riser in some configurations).

Anaheim building inspectors verify installation at the plumbing rough and final inspections. SoCalGas also offers installation guidance and maintains a list of approved valves. After a valve trips, it must be manually reset after confirming no gas leaks inside the building, and most valves should be tested or serviced every several years. The cost to retrofit a typical single-family home with a seismic valve is 250 to 600 dollars including permit and installation. Valves are especially important for properties near the Newport-Inglewood Fault where strong shaking is highly likely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a seismic gas valve for a simple water heater replacement?
If the cumulative permit valuation at the property over 12 months stays under 10,000 dollars, no valve is required. Many kitchen or bath remodels cross the threshold and do trigger installation.
My valve tripped - how do I reset it?
First, confirm no gas smell inside the building and all pilot lights are off. Then follow the manufacturer reset instructions on the valve. If you smell gas, leave the building and call SoCalGas at 1-800-427-2200.

Sources & Official References

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