Thursday, 3rd September 2026

California Legislative Information

California has passed legislation allowing gasoline and ethanol blends containing more than 10% and up to 15% ethanol (E15) to be used with existing gasoline equipment that is certified or approved for E10. The measure, effective until January 1, 2029, allows vapor-control systems, enhanced vapor-control systems, underground storage tank equipment, and fuel-dispensing devices approved for gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol to be deemed compatible with E15, provided equipment manufacturers submit a signed statement of compatibility to the relevant state agencies. The bill would temporarily expand the use of gasoline blended with more than 10% and up to 15% ethanol (E15) in California by allowing existing gasoline vapor-control and dispensing equipment certified for E10 to also be used with E15.

Specifically, until January 1, 2029, equipment currently approved for gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol could be considered approved for E15 if the equipment manufacturer submits a statement of compatibility, signed under penalty of perjury, to the relevant state agencies. Gas stations using E15 would also be required to follow labeling requirements established by the State Fire Marshal.

The bill would require the State Fire Marshal to adopt regulations by December 31, 2026 covering the labeling and safe use of E15 with authorized vapor-control systems and components.

It would also extend the deemed-approval provision to enhanced vapor-control systems at gasoline dispensing facilities, underground storage tank-related equipment, and devices used to dispense flammable liquids. These systems and devices could be used with E15 if the manufacturer provides the required compatibility statement.

Overall, the bill is intended to facilitate the use and sale of E15 in California without requiring immediate recertification or replacement of existing E10-compatible equipment, while maintaining labeling and safety requirements.