
Iowans Can Violate Federal Law by Simply Pumping Gas
Ok, follow me on this one. Here's the scenario. You leave home to head on a decently long road trip with the family. As soon as you hit the road, the kids complain that they need to use the bathroom. We've all been there. So, you pull into the nearest convenience store or gas station and figure, "I'll top off my tank while I'm here. Might as well." So, you reach for the cheapest gas available and manage to pump just short of 4 gallons. And that's when you break federal law. No, I'm not kidding.
So now you're asking yourself, "How in that scenario am I breaking any laws?" I get it and I'm with you. I wouldn't even have known if I didn't read the gas pump this morning and then do a little research. Let me break it down for you.

At pumps across the United States, you may notice a little sign at the pump that says, "if you pump less than 4 gallons of gas — specifically E-88 — you may violate Federal Law. So, it's a combination of both the type of gas you're pumping, the style of pump you're at, and the amount of gas you pumped.
The minimum 4-gallon purchase requirement at some Iowa gas pumps for E88 (also known as Unleaded 88 or E15) is primarily due to concerns about residual fuel left in the pump's dispensing system. Fuel pumps that dispense multiple fuel types through a single hose (like at many Casey's) can retain a small amount of the previously dispensed fuel—typically between 0.1 to 0.25 gallons. If a customer dispenses a small quantity of fuel, this residual can significantly alter the ethanol content of the fuel entering their vehicle.
Here's an example of a single hose fuel pump. Multiple types of fuel, but only one hose to fill with.
For instance, if a customer intends to purchase E10 (10% ethanol) but the hose contains residual E15 (15% ethanol), a small purchase could result in a higher-than-intended ethanol concentration in their tank. This is particularly concerning for vehicles or equipment not designed to handle higher ethanol blends, as it may lead to engine performance issues or damage.
To mitigate this risk, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recommended a minimum purchase of 4 gallons at pumps dispensing E15 through a single hose. This ensures that the residual fuel's impact on the overall ethanol concentration is minimized, maintaining fuel integrity and protecting engines.
It's important to note that this requirement applies specifically to pumps with a single hose dispensing multiple fuel types. Pumps with dedicated hoses for each fuel type do not have this issue, as there's no risk of cross-contamination between different ethanol blends.
Wait, Will I be Prosecuted then!?
You generally wouldn't be prosecuted by federal law simply for pumping under 4 gallons of E88 (E15). However, prosecution could occur under federal regulations if you knowingly:
Violate EPA Regulations:
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates fuel dispensing, particularly for E15, to prevent damage to engines not designed for higher ethanol blends.
- If you knowingly use E15 in vehicles or engines not approved for it (like motorcycles, boats, or certain older vehicles), this could be seen as violating EPA regulations.
Intentional Non-Compliance:
- If a gas station owner or operator intentionally allows customers to pump less than the required minimum in a way that violates EPA's fuel dispensing rules, it could result in fines or enforcement actions against the business.
- Individuals are unlikely to face federal prosecution for simply pumping less than 4 gallons unless there is clear evidence of intent to circumvent federal rules with harmful consequences.
So, there you have it. While individuals are unlikely to face federal prosecution for pumping less than 4 gallons of E88, businesses must comply with EPA regulations to avoid any penalties. There is no "gas police," so there really is no way you're going to be caught for breaking this federal law when you top off your vehicle. Just be aware that pumping under 4 gallons — especially if you're pumping at a single hose or into an older vehicle — might hurt your ride.
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