Shopper FAQs
Q: How often do you check gas stations to ensure that the pumps are measuring properly?
A: Gas stations are inspected once every two years. Gas stations that do not pass the initial inspection are placed on an increased frequency of inspection. Increased frequency of inspection can be once a year or every six months depending on the number of meters that failed the initial inspection.
Q: What if I suspect a gasoline or diesel pump is inaccurate?
A: Submit a complaint and we’ll check the pump’s accuracy. If any meter or other commercial device is found out of tolerance and is overcharging the customer, it is placed out of service (red tagged) until repaired by a licensed service agent.
Q: Do you check the quality of the fuel at gas stations?
A: Yes, County Inspectors check fuel quality on a complaint basis. The State Division of Measurement Standards will periodically check for octane and quality of petroleum products at locations randomly selected throughout the state.
Q: Have you ever shut down a whole gas station?
A: Yes, there have been several instances of contamination in underground storage tanks and delivery of non-standard product to underground storage tanks which resulted in a gas station closure.
Q: What is tare?
A: Tare, or tare weight, is the weight of packaging, wrapping or any material not considered product or part of the net weight. Tare weight plus net weight equals gross weight. Selling by gross weight or measure is a misdemeanor (Business & Professions Code 12023).
Q: Do you phone gas stations before you inspect them to let them know you are coming?
A: No.
Q: I was overcharged at the store, what do I do?
A: If possible, talk to the manager to correct the error. Also submit a complaint and an inspector conduct an investigation.
Q: What happens when I report an overcharge?
A: Investigation of consumer complaints is a high priority with the County. All complaints are kept anonymous from the store and logged and assigned to a district inspector. Complaints are acted upon within three working days.
Q: If there is no seal on a measuring device used in a commercial transaction, how do I know if it is accurate?
A: All commercial measuring devices, such as scales and pumps at gasoline stations, should have a round paper seal showing the date it was tested by the County Weights and Measures division. If it does not have a seal, call (408) 918-4630.