MONTGOMERY– Alabama fuel pumps remain subject to state inspection and enforcement, the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries said Thursday.

In an October 1 statement, ADAI rejected claims that consumers rely on an “honor system” at the gas pump. It also disputed suggestions that businesses must report their own violations before the state can act.

The department said its Weights and Measures Division retains regulatory authority over commercial measuring and weighing devices.

Inspections and Enforcement Continue

For fiscal year 2025, ADAI and licensed service technicians reported inspecting 104,100 pumps and meters. They also reported testing 8,256 petroleum products.

“Our employees are in communities across Alabama every day protecting consumers and maintaining fairness in the marketplace,” Commissioner Rick Pate said.

Licensed service companies install, calibrate, repair and verify devices, including fuel dispensers. However, ADAI said those companies do not replace the department’s enforcement authority.

The agency licenses and monitors technicians, conducts inspections and investigates complaints. It also enforces compliance requirements.

Inspectors can remove devices from commercial service when they fail required specifications or tolerances. The department requires correction of the violation before a device returns to commercial service.

In addition, inspectors can issue stop-sale orders for products that violate state or federal requirements.

Oversight Extends Beyond Gas Pumps

According to ADAI, Alabama has approximately 5,000 retail fuel locations and more than 100,000 gas pumps. The department also oversees more than 25,000 light, medium and heavy commercial scales.

Its responsibilities include grocery-store scales, packaged-product weights and price verification systems.

Meanwhile, the department said electronic reporting allows inspectors to complete records in real time from the field. Those records also help staff track devices, inspections and compliance across Alabama.

Weights and Measures Director Stacy Boshell said the division addresses complaints within 24 to 48 hours. Boshell also said violations can bring costs of up to $25,000.

How to Report a Concern

Consumers who suspect an inaccurate fuel pump, commercial scale or price verification system can call the division at 334-240-7133.

The division’s website also lists wm@agi.alabama.gov as its contact email. ADAI encourages consumers to report concerns so inspectors can investigate.

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