Required for all buildings in some cities; shuts off flow of natural gas during major earthquake to prevent fire or explosion. Some local jurisdictions in California have adopted ordinances requiring automatic gas shutoff devices at the time of sale or during significant renovations.

“Seismic gas shutoff device” means a device installed on customer-owned gas piping which automatically shuts off gas service when an earthquake of 5.4+ magnitude or greater occurs at the valve’s location. Automatic gas shutoff valves are installed on buildings’ gas house line (the pipe between the gas meter and the building). 
The reason for this requirement is that natural gas piping and appliances can be damaged during earthquakes, causing gas leaks. Quick shutoff of the flow of gas from ruptured pipes is a key to preventing a fire or explosion due to a gas leak caused by an earthquake. About one in four fires after an earthquake is related to natural gas leaks. The California State Architect is required to approve automatic gas shutoff valves to be installed in the State of California, pursuant to Section 19202 of the State of California Health and Safety Code. In the event that an automatic gas shutoff device is closed for any reason – even if the shutoff was not caused by an earthquake – only utility personnel or another qualified professionals should restore gas service and relight any appliance pilots in order to ensure a thorough safety and leak check is performed.

Automatic gas shutoff valves that activate and shut off your home or business’s natural gas supply in the event of a 5.4 or greater earthquake. Endorsed by the City of Los Angeles & JAPA, valves are tested and approved.