§ 626 Utility Access Fair Competition

Public Utilities Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

Key Takeaways

•A public utility (like electricity or water company) can't make deals that stop other utilities from serving people in the same building or area.
•No exclusive contracts allowed—every utility company should have a fair chance to provide service.
•This rule started on January 1, 2000.

Example

If you live in an apartment, the landlord can't make a deal with just one internet company to be the only option for everyone in the building.

The law says other internet companies must also be allowed to offer service to you, so you have choices.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 626 Utility Access Fair Competition

On or after January 1, 2000, a public utility may not enter into any exclusive access agreement with the owner or lessor of, or a person controlling or managing, a property or premises served by the public utility, or commit or permit any other act, that would limit the right of any other public utility to provide service to a tenant or other occupant of the property or premises. (Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 774, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 2000.)

Last verified: January 23, 2026

Key Terms

agreement utility contract tenant property starting january competition

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Public Utilities Code. Section 626.

Key Takeaways

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Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References