If you’ve ever been to a gas station in California, you’ve probably noticed that the station has an air pump to inflate your tires. Every air pump I’ve ever seen also has a water hose to fill your radiator. Some stations have air pumps and water dispensers that require a token that a customer who buys gasoline can get from the attendant. You may have also seen a sign like the one above on the air pump or near it that says that California law requires the station to provide free air and water to it’s customers. The rationale here is to provide for public safety by giving the average driver the means to keep their tires properly inflated and cars from overheating, both of which should reduce accidents.
The law in question here was passed in 1999 and went in to effect on January 1, 2000 as Business and Professions Code section 13651. Free air and water is covered in section 13651(a). The requirement regarding the posting of a sign like the one above is in section 13651(a)(2). Section 13651 also covers the availability of gas station restrooms in sub-section (b).
Should you as a member of the public come across a gas station that doesn’t have free air and water available to its customers, section 13651(d)(2) provides that the gas station may be subject to a fine of $250 by the Division of Measurement Standards of the California Department of Food and Agriculture.
Andy Chen
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I am bicyclist only. I frequent my home town’s only gas station at least 5 times a month spending anywhere from $5 to $35 depending. A 20 year customer thus far. Unless I purchase gas, however, I’m not allowed to use the air or water for free. Does this constitute discrimination?The restroom is never denied me where I use both air and water. Thanks,
Cende
Rio Dell, ca
Around 2pm 9/21/2024, I was at Shell gas station in Cerritos, CA cross street Pioneer and Artesia. Pulled in and purchased a full tank of premium gasoline. At the time, my tire pressure indicator light went off so I asked the clerk if she can help me out with some air for my tires. She demanded me to pay for air knowing that I purchased a full tank of gasoline. I am outraged by this demand knowing full well that low pressure in the tire can contribute to accidents on the road. I hope someone reads this tread and take action to this injustice. Thank you for your time.