Any device used to weigh or measure products or services for direct sale must be an approved type and annually registered with the County Department of Weights and Measures. This includes gasoline pumps, gas and electric submeters, grocery and deli counter scales, taxi meters, water vending machines, truck scales, and yardage meters among others. In addition, retail establishments that use point-of-sale (POS) systems, as defined by California law, must be registered and are routinely tested for pricing accuracy.
The goal of the device and POS registration program is to promote fairness in the marketplace for all businesses and their customers. Registration fees make it possible for the San Mateo County Department of Weights and Measures to inspect and certify all commercial devices as required by law. They also allow us to provide consumer protection and investigate complaints that we receive from the public or business operator.