Cathy Roache
County Agricultural Commissioner / Sealer
Agriculture / Weights & Measures

Ordinance for New Scanner Inspection Program


New "Buy with Confidence" Program

On August 9, 2005, Alameda County Supervisors, by adding section 3.72 to Title 3 of the Ordinance Code, created the "Buy with Confidence" program administered by the Alameda County Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures. The Department will hire two inspectors to conduct routine inspections of all businesses in the County using automated point of sale terminals or "scanners" to ensure that prices charged for items agree with the posted or advertised prices. Businesses using scanners will be charged an annual registration fee beginning in January of 2006. The ordinance will require that businesses post in a conspicuous location a certificate of registration, which will also serve to advise consumers that complaints regarding improperly scanned items may be directed to the Department. This program is designed to protect both consumers and sellers from incorrect computation of prices. A copy of the ordinance is available below. For more information please contact the Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures at 510-268-7343.