Annual Walking and Mobile Gas Leak Survey
Published on March 24, 2022
Annual Walking and Mobile Gas Leak Survey
The City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU) will begin its annual walking and mobile gas leak survey of the City in April. This routine inspection of our gas distribution system is conducted every year as required by Department of Transportation Pipeline Safety Regulations and is carried out to ensure the safety of all who live and work in Palo Alto.
Two types of gas leak surveys are performed every year; a walking survey of half of the residential areas and a mobile survey of all business districts and mains. Approximately one-half of the City is covered every year by the walking survey so that the entire gas distribution system can be reviewed in a two-year period. This year the walking survey will cover the northern section of the City.
From April through December, City contractor Manesco Corporation will walk residential areas to check for gas leaks along pipes, gas meters and covers. If a gas meter is inaccessible, the surveyor will leave a door hanger requesting that the resident contact CPAU to schedule a time for Manesco to return and complete the survey. Natural gas service to your residence or business is not expected to be interrupted. If gas service must be interrupted for any reason, the City will attempt to contact you in person. After the walking survey, the contractor will begin a mobile (driving) survey of natural gas service points, mains and meters in business districts.
Once the surveys are complete, over 200 miles of gas mains and pipelines will be checked through this thorough review. If any gas leaks are found, they are documented and repaired according to CPAU’s policies. Those who are interested can find details and a map of the gas leak survey area here(PDF, 1MB) .
The surveyors will be carrying City-issued contractor badges and business cards for the Utilities project managers. Customers are asked to call our Gas Utility Operations for non-emergencies with any questions or concerns.
If you suspect a Utilities emergency, please contact the 24 hour Dispatch at (650) 329-2579.
For non-emergencies, contact the following during regular hours (Monday-Thursday 8AM – 4PM, Friday 8AM – 3PM)
(650) 838-2838 (Project Coordinator)
(650) 496-6982, (Water-Gas-Wastewater Operations Main Line)
We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to improve the safety, reliability, and performance of our utility services.