Natural-gas service / meter from SoCalGas (and LADBS gas piping permit + pressure test): Los Angeles restaurant guide
SoCalGas / LADBS
What it is
New or larger gas cooking lines need (1) an LADBS plumbing permit for the gas piping with a pressure test and inspection, and (2) SoCalGas to size and set the meter or upgrade the service. SoCalGas will not set the meter until LADBS releases the gas (houseline) inspection.
When a restaurant needs it
Installing gas cooking equipment, water heaters or increasing gas load.
How to apply
Apply for new non-residential service or "Modify Existing Service" in SoCalGas Builder Services (cost estimator), sign the project contract, then call 800-427-2200 for the billing application; your plumber pulls the LADBS gas permit and schedules the test.
Documents you’ll need
- Total connected gas load (BTU/h) from the kitchen equipment schedule
- Site plan with meter location
- LADBS plumbing/gas permit number
- SoCalGas project contract
Good to know
LADBS requires plan check for fuel-gas systems with more than 10 outlets. Start the SoCalGas request as soon as equipment is specified — service upgrades are a common opening delay.
Official source
SoCalGas — Builder Services · LADBS — plumbing permits (gas piping)
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.