New York AGM Article 16, Section 192-H: Avoid The Fines! How to Keep Your Gas Station Compliant

New York’s AGM Article 16, Section 192-H was implemented to prevent the fuel shortages experienced during major storms like Hurricane Sandy. This law requires certain gas stations in New York’s downstate region to have the capability to operate using an alternate power source in the event of a power outage. For gas station owners, understanding the law and ensuring compliance is crucial to avoiding fines and keeping fuel accessible during emergencies.

Why Was This Law Put in Place?

Hurricane Sandy in 2012 exposed significant vulnerabilities in fuel availability during emergencies. Widespread power outages left many gas stations unable to pump fuel, creating long lines and severe shortages for residents, businesses, and emergency responders. To prevent this issue in future disasters, New York State enacted this law to ensure that gas stations in critical areas can continue operating, even when the power grid is down.

This mandate not only enhances disaster preparedness but also ensures public safety, economic stability, and emergency response capabilities in times of crisis.

Who Must Comply?

Gas stations must determine if they fall under the requirements of Agriculture and Markets Law Article 16, Section 192-H by assessing the following factors:

• Location: Applies to gas stations in New York City, Long Island, and parts of the Hudson Valley (Westchester, Rockland, Orange, and Putnam counties).
• Chain Ownership: Stations that are part of a retail chain with ten or more outlets in the downstate region.
• Proximity Requirements: Stations located within one-half mile of a highway exit or hurricane evacuation route.
• Fuel Volume: High-volume fuel stations may also be subject to compliance, depending on their sales levels.

Gas stations that meet these criteria must have a backup generator installed or a docking station for quick emergency power deployment, along with a documented plan.

How Can Gas Stations Ensure Compliance?

To comply with NY AGM Article 16, Section 192-H, gas stations must take the following steps:

1. Assess Eligibility – Station owners should determine if their location, ownership status, and infrastructure meet the compliance criteria.
2. Install Required Equipment – If required, gas stations must install a prewired transfer switch or generator docking station that allows for a quick connection to a backup generator. Alternatively, they can opt to install a permanent backup generator, which must be properly maintained to ensure reliable operation when needed.
3. Develop a Power Contingency Plan – Stations that do not install permanent backup generators must have a documented plan outlining how they will deploy and connect a generator in the event of an emergency.
4. Test and Maintain Equipment – Stations should routinely inspect and test their power backup solutions to ensure they function properly when needed.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with NY AGM Article 16, Section 192-H can result in financial penalties. Gas stations not meeting requirements may face daily fines of up to $1,500 per violation. Beyond financial risks, non-compliant stations risk losing business during outages, damaging their reputation, and failing to serve their community in times of need.

How Weld Power Generator Can Help

Weld Power Generator specializes in turnkey backup power solutions to ensure gas stations remain compliant with NY AGM Article 16, Section 192-H and can operate during power outages. Here’s how we can assist:

• Generator & ATS Installation: We install and maintain transfer switches, generator docking stations and backup generators, ensuring stations are equipped for emergencies.
• Rental Generator Solutions: For stations that need a temporary solution, we provide generator rentals with rapid deployment options. However, availability is limited, especially during natural disasters, so we strongly recommend reserving a unit in advance to ensure your station remains operational when it matters most.
• Routine Maintenance & Building Load Testing: Regular generator maintenance ensures backup power is always available when needed. Building load testing verifies that your generator or a rental unit, is properly sized and capable of handling your station’s power demands, ensuring seamless operation during an outage.
• Emergency Response Services: Our 24/7 emergency support guarantees immediate assistance during power outages.
• Custom Compliance Plans: We work with gas station owners to develop a power outage contingency plan tailored to their specific compliance needs.
• On-Site Training & Consultation: Our team can provide training to station managers and staff on proper generator use and emergency protocols.

Prepare Now to Stay Operational

Don’t wait until the next storm or power outage to ensure compliance. Partner with Weld Power Generator to protect your business, avoid fines, and keep fuel available when it’s needed most.

Contact us today to discuss your gas station’s backup power needs and compliance strategy.