Regulatory Information

Portable fuel containers, commonly referred to as gas cans, are a familiar fixture in American lives from the nostalgic metal jerry cans to the now standard red plastic cans. As of January 1, 2009, all new portable fuel containers manufactured must be compliant with new regulatory standards.

In brief, the regulations require the following:

• An automatic closure spout. This means, when a spout is not engaged for pouring it must automatically return to a closed position.
• A permeation resistant container to reduce hydrocarbon emissions to the acceptable .3 grams/ gallon/day.
• Child resistant features as outlined by the Children's Gasoline Burn Prevention Act.

The 1/1/09 regulation requirements may be explored in detail here EPA Rules and Regulations: Control of Hazardous Air Pollutants From Mobile Sources Final Rule ( Portable Fuel Containers are section VII, page 8499.)

To learn more about hydrocarbon emissions and air quality, please visit www.epa.org or your local state environmental agency.

To learn more about the regulatory requirements and how you might be affected, please continue to read our frequently asked questions.