Electric shutoff rules and winter protections
Rules on shutting off power for unpaid bills differ by state, by utility and by season. This page covers all 50 states and DC: for 49 we read the rule text itself, for 2 a secondary source, for 0 only the federal summary. It is not legal advice.
State by state
Each row paraphrases the rule or statute we read and says how sure we are. Rule text read means we read the section at the linked source on 2 October 2026. Secondary source means a commission page or a mirror, not the rule. Summary only means we found nothing better than the HHS LIHEAP Clearinghouse summary, so the state page says to verify with the commission.
| State | Rule or statute | Winter / hot weather | Notice | Payment plan | Confidence and source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Ala. Admin. Code r. 770-X-1-.12 (Alabama PSC General Rules, collection of delinquent accounts and discontinuance of service for nonpayment) | winter: Rule .12(2)(e): no residential electric or natural gas service may be disconnected for nonpayment when the National Weather Service forecast for that location is 32 F or below for that calendar day. | At least 5 days written notice of intent to discontinue after the account is delinquent (delinquent = unpaid 10 days after due date). | Each utility must give at least one employee in each office power to extend the payment deadline and agree to installments (.12(4)). | Rule text read; state official (Alabama Legislative Services Agency admin code, chapter PDF; chapter page https://admincode.legislature.state.al.us/administrative-code/770-X-1) |
| Alaska | 3 AAC 52.450 (Disconnection of service) with 3 AAC 52.445 (Deferred payment agreements) and 3 AAC 52.400 (Application) | winter: no season or temperature ban found in the text read; heat: no season or temperature ban found in the text read | Standard: written notice mailed or delivered at least 15 days before disconnection (copy to designated third party); then attempt personal contact (phone, or visit with Shut-Off Notice) not less than 3 working days before disconnection. Disconnect only Monday 8 a.m. to Thursday 5 p.m. within 10 days of the Shut-Off Notice date; not on a Friday or day before a holiday. Nonpayment ground: bill unpaid 40 days after initial rendering. | 3 AAC 52.445: for a residential customer showing economic hardship, utility may not refuse to restore or continue service unless the customer refuses a deferred payment plan: pay one-third or less down, remaining balance in installments over up to 12 months (plan at least 3 months unless customer agrees shorter). | Rule text read; state official (Alaska Legislature AAC print view); also read on Cornell LII https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/alaska/3-AAC-52.450 (source of effective dates) |
| Arizona | Ariz. Admin. Code R14-2-211 | winter: Each utility adopts only one of two options (A)(11): (a) no termination of residential service while the NWS forecast shows temperatures that do not exceed 32F, that exceed 95F, or other conditions the Commission orders as especially dangerous; or (b) no termination June 1 through October 15, set out in tariff. Rule has no winter calendar ban.; heat: Same (A)(11): either a 95F+ NWS-forecast ban (option a) or the fixed June 1 to Oct 15 window (option b); under (b) no late fees or interest accrue in that window and arrears are billed in installments afterwards. | (D)(1) at least 10 days' advance written notice (customer's preferred method or US mail); then a final notice two days before the termination date (E); where preferred method is US mail, ten days allowed. Text shows overlapping numbering from amendment markup. | (A)(9): utility may require a deferred payment agreement within seven business days for customers protected under (A)(4)/(A)(5); at least one missed or partial payment per 12 months allowed without breach; good faith duty. Notice must describe deferred payment programs. | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Arkansas | 23 CAR 455-601 to 455-619 (Arkansas PSC General Service Rules), esp. 455-604, 455-613, 455-615, 455-617, 455-618 | winter: 455-615(a): electric and gas utilities may not suspend residential service on a day when the NWS forecasts 32 F or lower at any time in the following 24 hours. | 455-604: written notice at least 5 calendar days before suspension, first-class mail to last known address; if mailed, the 5 days start 3 calendar days after mailing; if delivered to premises, left in conspicuous place. No prior notice needed for some causes (e.g. broken payment agreement, tampering, safety hazard). No suspension in last hour of office hours or on day before the office is closed. | 455-613: utility must offer a delayed payment agreement to a qualifying residential customer: down payment up to 1/4 of overdue bill, equal installments for at least 3 months; may decline if customer broke an agreement in last 12 months or deadline on shut-off notice has passed; interest allowed. | Rule text read; state official (APSC rules PDF); consumer page https://apsc.arkansas.gov/consumer-services/suspension-of-service/ |
| California | Cal. Public Utilities Code § 779.1 | winter: No season or temperature ban in Pub. Util. Code §§ 779.1, 779.2 or 777.1 (read in full). | At least 19 days from the mailing of the bill to pay; termination notice mailed not earlier than 19 days after the bill and at least 10 days before proposed termination, with the 10 days starting five days after mailing ((a)); phone or personal contact attempt at least 24 hours before, else notice by mail or in person at least 48 hours before ((b)). Notice must include amount, date, complaint procedure, amortization request, assistance info, a phone number, and the commission's phone number ((d)). After a broken amortization agreement, 48 hours' notice ((f)). | Notice must describe the procedure to request amortization of the unpaid charges ((d)(5)); breach of an amortization agreement needs 48 hours' notice ((f)). | Rule text read; state official (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov) |
| Colorado | 4 CCR 723-3, rule 3407 | winter: 3407(e)(VII)(A): utility must postpone discontinuance of residential service any day the NWS local forecast between 6 and 9 a.m. | Notice timing not in 3407 text read (rule 3408). | (e)(II): no discontinuance if customer pays at least one-tenth of the amount on the notice by its expiry and enters an installment plan per rule 3404. | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Connecticut | Regs. Conn. State Agencies 16-3-100 (Termination of utility service) | winter: From Nov 1 to Apr 15 inclusive, utility may not terminate or refuse to reinstate residential electric or gas service in hardship cases (income-based or circumstance-based definition, incl. | No termination earlier than 13 days after notice mailed first-class to customer (and designated third party); no termination on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, holidays or day before a holiday, or within one hour of office closing. Notice must state grounds, conditions to prevent termination, date, restoration conditions, and rights explanation. Delinquent after 33 days unpaid (monthly billers). | 16-3-100(b)(3)(A): residential gas or electric customer must first be offered a reasonable amortization agreement; simple interest up to 6% per year if charged; review officer process if no agreement. | Rule text read; state official (CT eRegulations portal, Secretary of the State) |
| Delaware | 26 Del. Admin. Code 3002 (Regulations Governing Termination of Residential Electric or Natural Gas Service by Public Utilities for Non-Payment During Extreme Seasonal Temperature Conditions), esp. 3002-3.0 and 3002-6.0 | winter: Heating season Nov 15 to Mar 31 (3002-2.0). No termination for non-payment on a day when the NWS 8:00 A.M. | During heating or cooling season: written notice (first-class mail to billing address) at least 14 calendar days before termination; heating season also at least 2 documented phone attempts on separate days (one after 6 P.M.); cooling season at least 1 phone attempt. Heating season: notice also to occupant if billing address differs. Final in-person contact attempt by employee at disconnection. | Notice must offer initial installment agreement: current bills plus monthly installments over a period not less than that during which the arrears were incurred, with interest per tariff; and list charitable or governmental assistance organizations. | Rule text read; state official (Delaware Register of Regulations admin code page); also read on Cornell LII https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/delaware/26-Del-Admin-Code-SS-3002-6.0 with identical text |
| District of Columbia | 15 DCMR 310-312, 306, 320 (Chapter 3, Consumer Rights and Responsibilities) | winter: 310.3(a): electric utility may not disconnect residential electric service for nonpayment, missed deposit or DPA breach on the day before and the day of an NWS forecast of 32 F or below (using wind chill), nor on holidays or weekends following such a forecast. Applies where electricity is the primary heating or cooling source (as worded).; heat: 310.3(a): same bar when the NWS forecast for DC is 95 F or above (heat index considered). | 311.3: disconnection notice sent to billing address by first-class mail or technological means at least 15 days before disconnection (also copy to designated third party on request); notice must be on first page of the bill in bold if sent with a bill. 312: at least 2 attempts to contact, at least 2 days before disconnection. No disconnection after 5 p.m. Thursday until 8 a.m. Monday or on holidays (311.7), with narrow exceptions. | 306 and 311.6: utility and customer may enter a deferred payment agreement; no interest or new charges beyond those accrued at settlement; service not disconnected while a DPA is kept; written DPA within 10 business days. | Rule text read; commission page (DC PSC compiled Chapter 15-3 PDF; PSC says official copy is on dcregs.dc.gov, which was under maintenance) |
| Florida | Fla. Admin. Code R. 25-6.105 | winter: no season or temperature ban found in the text read (R 25-6.105 has none); heat: no hot-weather ban found in the text read | At least 5 working days' written notice, separate from the bill, after a diligent attempt to have the customer comply; 'working day' = a day the utility business office is open and US Mail is delivered. No prior notice for hazard, tampering, fraud. Notice must give the PSC complaint line. | No payment-plan requirement in this rule; deferred payment not read (tariff/other rule). | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Georgia | Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 515-3-2-.01 to .06 (residential electric and gas utility service disconnections), esp. 515-3-2-.04 | winter: 515-3-2-.04(1): between Nov 15 and Mar 15 a utility may not discontinue residential service for an unpaid bill if the customer agrees in writing to pay the past-due balance in equal installments (ending before Oct 15) and to pay current bills on time, and the forecast local low for the 24 hours from 8:00 A.M. on the disconnection date is below 32 F. So protection is conditional on the payment agreement.; heat: 515-3-2-.04(2): an electric utility may not discontinue residential service for an unpaid bill if, before 8:00 A.M. on the scheduled day, an NWS Heat Advisory or Excessive Heat Warning is in effect or forecast for the county of the meter. No set summer date range. | 515-3-2-.02: written notice delivered at least 5 days before disconnection to service address (or guarantor address), with stated contents; good-faith personal contact (phone, certified mail, etc.) at least 2 days before; disconnection date must be a business day; unpaid bill must be at least 45 days old (.01). Multi-family tenants: 5 days written notice, personally served or posted (.05). | The only installment arrangement found is the written agreement tied to the Nov 15 - Mar 15 protection in .04(1); no general deferred-payment rule in the sections read. | Rule text read; Cornell LII (also read .01, .02, .03, .05, .06; subject page https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/georgia/department-515/chapter-515-3/subject-515-3-2) |
| Hawaii | Hawaiian Electric Co. Tariff Rule No. 7, Discontinuance and Restoration of Service (Sheets 15, 16, 16.1, 16A), as approved by the Hawaii PUC; no statewide PUC residential disconnection rule text found | winter: no season or temperature ban found in the text read; heat: no season or temperature ban found in the text read | Nonpayment: written notice giving at least 5 days, excluding Sundays and holidays, to settle the account (Rule 7A8). | Not addressed in Rule 7 as read. | Secondary source; other (utility tariff PDF on hawaiianelectric.com; not a PUC administrative rule) |
| Idaho | IDAPA 31.21.01.304, .306, .308, .313 (Customer Relations Rules for Electric, Gas and Water Utilities, Idaho PUC) | winter: Rule 306: from Dec through Mar no gas/electric utility may terminate or threaten termination of a residential customer who declares inability to pay in full and whose household includes children (18 or under), elderly (62+) or infirm persons. Customers who set up a Winter Payment Plan before Nov 1 are protected Nov through Mar (later enrollment protects from enrollment date). No temperature trigger found.; heat: no season or temperature ban found in the text read | Rule 304: written notice mailed at least 7 calendar days before termination (email only if billed electronically and consented); optional final written notice at least 3 days before; at least 24 hours before termination the utility must diligently try to contact customer in person or by phone. Rule 311: no termination on Fri, Sat, Sun, state holidays or day before a holiday; weekday hours 8-5 (Mon-Thu). | Rule 313: utility continues service if customer and utility agree on a reasonable payment arrangement; must be offered by phone/mail/home visit on request; level pay plan of 1 year or more acceptable. Rule 306 Winter Payment Plan payments are one-half of the level-pay amount. | Rule text read; Cornell LII (rules .304, .306, .308, .311, .313 read at same URL pattern) |
| Illinois | 83 Ill. Adm. Code 280.130 (Disconnection of Service), 280.135 (Winter Disconnection, Dec 1-Mar 31), 280.160 (Medical Certification), 280.230 (Commission Complaint Process) | winter: 280.130(n)(1): no termination of residential gas/electric service (where it is the only space heat source) on any day the NWS 24-hour forecast includes 32 F or below, or before a holiday/weekend with a forecast of 32 F or below. | 280.130(e)-(g),(j): written notice sent separately by U.S. | 280.135: winter DPA of at least 4 months (not beyond the following November), down payment max 10% of past due, option of budget plan; 280.160(i) medical payment arrangement. | Rule text read; Wayback of Cornell LII (ilga.gov blocked) |
| Indiana | 170 IAC 4-1-16; Ind. Code 8-1-2-121 (winter, via OUCC page) | winter: 170 IAC 4-1-16 has no season or temperature ban. | (e): 14 days' prior written notice by mail or personal delivery, not before the account is delinquent; notice must state date, reason, utility phone number and reference to rights pamphlet. Disconnection only 8 a.m.-3 p.m., none on or after noon before a day the utility office is closed. Field employee must identify, announce purpose, and accept proof of payment/dispute. | (c)(2): no disconnection if customer shows cause for inability to pay (hardship) and pays a reasonable portion (not over $10 or 1/10 of bill, whichever less, unless agreed greater), agrees to pay the rest within three months and future bills, and has not breached a similar agreement in 12 months; terms in writing. Separate arrangement for bills inflated by utility error. | Rule text read; Cornell LII (rule); Indiana OUCC page https://www.in.gov/oucc/about-your-rates/winter-disconnection-moratorium-frequently-asked-questions/ (statute summary) |
| Iowa | Iowa Admin. Code r. 199-20.4(14)-(15) (electric customer relations: disconnection, special circumstances) and 199-20.4(8) payment agreements | winter: 20.4(15)(8): no disconnection where electricity is the only space-heating source (or runs the only heating equipment) when the actual temperature or 24-hour NWS forecast is 20 F or colder; disconnection may resume once above 20 F with a forecast to stay above for 24 hours. 20.4(15)(10): no disconnection Nov 1 through Apr 1 of a head of household certified by the community action agency as eligible for LIHEAP or weatherization assistance (and named household members); 30 days' hold if utility is told household may qualify.; heat: no season or temperature ban found in the text read | 20.4(14): written notice mailed to last-known address; disconnection date at least 12 days after notice is provided (24 hours posted notice for customers on shorter billing intervals); notice must include toll-free/collect number and commission-approved summary of rights; disconnection weekday-only restrictions per 20.4(15) (not fully read). | 20.4(8): customer with disconnection notice or disconnected under 120 days must be offered a payment agreement of at least 12 even monthly payments (six if disconnected over 120 days), plus current account; early payoff without penalty. | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Kansas | KCC Electric, Natural Gas and Water Billing Standards, Sections IV (D, E) and V (Cold Weather Rule); not a K.A.R. citation found | winter: Section V: Nov 1 through Mar 31, no disconnection when the local NWS forecasts the temperature will drop below 35 F or be in the mid-30s or colder within the following 48 hours, with listed exceptions (customer request, abandonment, dangerous condition, tampering, etc.). Payment arrangements needed to be protected at 35 F or above.; heat: no season or temperature ban found in the text read | Section IV.E: written notice 10 days before discontinuing; Cold Weather Rule section: first-class mail 10 days before termination (KCC page also says attempt phone/personal contact the day before). | Cold Weather Rule: customer informs utility of inability to pay, pays 1/12 of arrearage plus 1/12 of current bill, fees and any deposit, then 11-month plan, or negotiates another plan; must apply for available assistance. | Rule text read; state official (KCC Billing Standards PDF) plus KCC Cold Weather Rule page https://www.kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule |
| Kentucky | 807 KAR 5:006, Sections 15 and 16 | winter: Winter provisions are November 1 to March 31: Section 15(3): electric or gas utility may not terminate for 30 days beyond the termination date if the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (or designee) certifies the customer eligible for energy assistance or at/below 130 percent of poverty; certificate must be presented during the initial 10-day notice period, the notice must have been issued Nov 1-Mar 31, customer must pay what they can and agree a repayment plan to be current by October 15. Section 16: winter hardship reconnection Nov 1-Mar 31 for a customer with a certificate of need: pays one-third of bill or $200, whichever less, and agrees to a repayment plan.; heat: no hot-weather protection found in the text read | 15(1)(f)1: at least ten days' written notice of intent to terminate (mail or otherwise delivered); service not terminated before 27 days after mailing of the original unpaid bill; residential notice must list assistance programs and Cabinet contact. No notice for dangerous conditions or theft. | 15(2)(b) partial payment plan under Section 14 bars termination while kept; 15(3)(c) and Section 16(1)(c) repayment plans current by October 15; Section 16(1)(c)1 over $600 balance plan accepted if current charges paid and good-faith reduction. | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Louisiana | LPSC General Order R-29706 (Second Amended), Disconnection of Service: Electric and Gas Utilities, Oct 5, 2007 | winter: Utility may not disconnect a residential customer in a parish on a day when the previous day's highest temperature did not exceed 32 F and is predicted to stay at or below 32 F for the next 24 hours per nearest NWS reports. | Not stated (not covered by the order read) | Not stated (not covered by the order read) | Rule text read; Wayback of LPSC order PDF (direct fetch blocked by Cloudflare) |
| Maine | 65-407 CMR Chapter 815, Consumer Protection Standards for Electric and Gas T&D Utilities, Sections 10 (disconnection) and 11 (medical emergency) | winter: Winter Disconnection Period Nov 15 through Apr 15: utility may not disconnect any residential customer without prior permission of the PUC's Consumer Assistance and Safety Division (CASD), allowed only if customer rejects or breaks payment arrangements or cannot be contacted. Special Payment Arrangements offered. Cycle disconnections (if CASD permits) not on days not expected to reach 32 F, nor if children under 12 or elderly are present.; heat: no season or temperature ban found in the text read | Section 10: residential customers get written notice at least 14 calendar days before the disconnection date for nonpayment; notice cannot issue until 30 days after the bill was mailed; disconnection date not Friday, weekend, holiday or day before a holiday; notice effective 10 business days. | Section 9: utility must continue service if customer enters a payment arrangement for the balance and pays future bills; winter Special Payment Arrangements (customers may pay less than full bills) must be offered. | Rule text read; state official (Maine PUC PDF) |
| Maryland | COMAR 20.31.03.04 (with definition in COMAR 20.31.01.02B(9)) | winter: A utility may not terminate service for nonpayment to any customer if its designated weather station area is in a winter extreme weather period: 72 hours from 6 a.m., three consecutive 24-hour segments, in each of which the forecast temperature is not expected to exceed 32F; re-determined every 24 hours at 6 a.m. (.04A; .01.02B(9)(a)).; heat: A utility may not terminate electric service for nonpayment (or gas used for cooling if the customer told the utility) to a customer in a residential building when the weather station area is in a summer extreme weather period: 72 hours from 6 a.m., three consecutive 24-hour segments with forecast heat index or air temperature of 95F or above (.04B; .01.02B(9)(b)). | Not read in this session for ordinary nonpayment (COMAR 20.31.02 only the no-notice grounds were read). | Only referenced: payment agreement under COMAR 20.31.01.08 required within 30 days of a medical certificate; that section not read. | Rule text read; Cornell LII (definitions read at https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/maryland/COMAR-20-31-01-02) |
| Massachusetts | 220 CMR 25.03 | winter: Between Nov 15 and Mar 15 a company may not shut off or refuse to restore service where the customer certifies that the service provides heat or runs the heating system, it was not shut off for nonpayment before Nov 15, and the customer cannot pay because of financial hardship ((1)(a)3, (1)(b)). No shutoff-threat notices Nov 15 - Mar 15 to a customer who gave notice of hardship unless the Department authorizes ((5)). Heating accounts get phone or personal notice no earlier than 3 days before shutoff in that period ((7)). | Arrearage notices must carry a prominent notice of the protections; heating accounts get phone/personal notice no earlier than 3 days before shutoff Nov 15 - Mar 15 ((5),(7)). | verify with commission | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Michigan | Mich. Admin. Code R. 460.138 | winter: Rule 38(1)(b): shutoff prohibited during the heating season when the customer is an eligible senior citizen. | verify with commission | verify with commission | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Minnesota | Minn. Stat. § 216B.096 (investor-owned) and § 216B.097 (municipal and co-op) | winter: Cold weather period October 1 to April 30. 216B.096 subd. | 216B.096 subd. | Subd. | Rule text read; state official |
| Mississippi | Miss. Admin. Code Title 39, Part III (PSC Rules and Regulations Governing Public Utility Service), Rules 8.100, 8.105, 8.120, 8.125 (with Rule 1.100) | winter: Mid-winter rule (Rule 8.120): Dec, Jan, Feb and Mar, a residential electric or gas customer unable to pay in full because of extreme financial difficulty can avoid disconnection by certifying the hardship in writing and agreeing to an extended payment plan (pay pre-Nov 11 balance, then 133% of levelized bill until caught up). Separately, Rule 8.125(3)(a): no electric/gas disconnection for nonpayment if a National Weather Service freeze warning is in effect for the county as of 8:00 a.m. on the scheduled day (not limited to Dec-Mar in the text read).; heat: Rule 8.125(3)(b): no electric disconnection for nonpayment if an NWS Excessive Heat Warning is in effect for the county as of 8:00 a.m. on the scheduled disconnection day. | At least 5 days written notice, stating a date on or after which discontinuance may occur; may be given by U.S. | Rule 8.105(1): residential customers have the right to negotiate a delayed payment plan with the electric or gas company under the utility's terms and conditions. | Rule text read; commission page (official PSC PDF of the Rules) |
| Missouri | Mo. Code Regs. tit. 20, 4240-13.010, 13.050, 13.055, 13.070 (Chapter 13, residential service and billing practices) | winter: Cold Weather Rule (13.055), Nov 1-Mar 31, heat-related electric/gas service: no shutoff on any day the NWS forecast (6-9 a.m.) predicts temperature below 32F in the next 24 hours, where electric is the space-heating source (5)(A); also no shutoff if a customer states inability to pay in full, makes the required initial payment and enters a payment agreement (6). Registered low-income elderly/disabled customers (income under 150% of poverty) are protected Nov 1-Mar 31 while paying the lesser of 50% of the bill or the plan amount (5)(C). | 13.050(5): written notice by first-class mail at least 10 days before discontinuance (or hand delivery at least 96 hours before); reasonable contact efforts at least 24 hours before (8); service cut only 8 a.m.-4 p.m., not on a day utility staff are unavailable to reconnect or the day before (3). Nov 1-Mar 31 adds second contact within 96 hours (13.055(3)). | 13.055(10): cold-weather payment agreement; utility first offers a 12-month budget plan covering arrears and estimated bills; initial payment no more than 12% of the 12-month budget amount (80% of balance after a prior default) unless otherwise agreed. | Rule text read; Wayback of state official (MO Secretary of State Code of State Regulations PDF, 11/30/23 edition) |
| Montana | Mont. Admin. R. 38.5.1401-38.5.1418 (Subchapter 38.5.14, Termination of Gas and Electric Service); read 1401-1415, 1418 | winter: 38.5.1410: Nov 1 to Apr 1, and any day the 8 a.m. | 38.5.1405: written notice required; if no response within 10 days of the first notice mailing, a second notice by first-class or certified mail at least 10 days before termination; 5 business days if bad check or breached payment agreement; diligent in-person/phone contact or conspicuous notice before termination. 38.5.1412: only 8:00 a.m.-12:00 noon, not on a day (or the day before) the utility is unavailable to reconnect. | 38.5.1415: when a customer cannot pay in full the utility may keep serving if they agree on an immediate portion and a schedule for the rest; reasonableness considers ability to pay, balance, history and reasons. | Rule text read; Wayback of state official (Montana Secretary of State rules.mt.gov); 38.5.1405-1408 read on Cornell LII |
| Nebraska | Neb. Rev. Stat. 70-1601 to 70-1613 (esp. 70-1605, 70-1606, 70-1608 to 70-1612) | verify with commission | 70-1605: notice in person, by first-class mail or (if elected) electronic delivery, conspicuously marked; no discontinuance for at least 7 days after notice is sent or given, weekends and holidays excluded. Village utilities: written mailed notice 7 days before (70-1603). Contents listed in 70-1606. | 70-1606(1)(i): notice must state that the subscriber may arrange an installment payment plan with the utility; no stated plan terms. | Rule text read; Wayback of state official (nebraskalegislature.gov statute pages) |
| Nevada | Nev. Admin. Code 704.341, 704.346, 704.350-704.390 (esp. 704.355, 704.360, 704.370, 704.372, 704.375, 704.390) | winter: No calendar-season ban found. | 704.360: written initial notice at least 10 days before termination (personal service, first-class mail, or electronic if requested), then second notice at least 48 hours before; 48 hours notice after a missed deferred-payment installment. 704.375: no termination on weekends, holidays or the day before; $50 or less owed (advanced meter customers: $100) bars termination. | 704.341: utility must offer deferred payment on request if the customer agrees in writing to pay the arrearage within 90 days in four equal payments and pay future bills when due; once per 11 months unless agency pledges assistance (3). 704.372: utility may postpone for a plan if the customer is able to pay. | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| New Hampshire | N.H. Code Admin. R. Puc 1201.02, 1202 (definitions), 1203.07, 1203.11, 1204.01-1204.06, 1205.01-1205.02 (Chapter Puc 1200) | winter: Winter period Nov 15 through Mar 31 (Puc 1202). | Puc 1203.11(b): written notice postmarked 14 calendar days before disconnection, with medical emergency statement. | Puc 1203.07: utility shall keep serving a residential customer who cannot pay in full if they pay a reasonable portion, then reasonable installments, and current bills. | Rule text read; Wayback of state official (NH General Court administrative rules page); sections also read on Cornell LII |
| New Jersey | N.J. Admin. Code 14:3-3A.1 to 14:3-3A.5 (read 3A.1-3A.7) | winter: 14:3-3A.5: Nov 15-Mar 15 "heating season"; no discontinuance for residential customers who show they are on Lifeline, HEAP/LIHEAP, TANF, SSI, PAAD, GA or USF, or are unable to pay due to circumstances beyond their control (self-certification allowed); they must enroll in a budget plan and make good-faith payments; no deposit demanded. 3A.2(e)1: no residential disconnection whenever the forecast high is 32F or below in the next 24 hours, for all residential customers.; heat: 3A.2(e)3: no residential disconnection for nonpayment whenever the forecast high is 90F or more at any time in the following 48 hours (lowest forecast used for cold, highest for heat, from national weather stations). | 3A.3: at least 20 days after the original bill postmark before a notice is sent; written notice by first-class mail as a separate mailing gives at least 10 more days. | 3A.4(h)3: every notice must tell the customer they may contact the utility about a deferred payment agreement. | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| New Mexico | 17.5.410 NMAC (esp. 17.5.410.7, .30, .31, .32, .33, .39, .40, .43) | winter: Heating season defined as Nov 15 through Mar 15. | At least 15 days written notice (in person, US mail, or email if customer elected e-billing), in English and Spanish; final contact (phone, verifiable mail or in person) at least 2 days before disconnection date. Disconnection allowed 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday; not within 24 hours before a holiday/weekend unless office open for payment (17.5.410.33). | Utility must attempt to arrange an installment agreement when a customer not chronically delinquent says they cannot pay; no disconnection if customer enters agreement by the specific date (17.5.410.40). Chronically delinquent customers get special consideration if LIHEAP-qualified. Budget payment plans in .11 (not read in detail). | Rule text read; state official (NM State Records Center and Archives, NMAC) |
| New York | 16 NYCRR § 11.5 | winter: Nov 1 - Apr 15, for residential heat-related service: utility must try to contact the customer or adult resident (phone, then evening/weekend phone, then visit) at least 72 hours before termination to ask whether a resident is likely to suffer serious impairment to health or safety, and again in person at termination. If it finds such risk it may not terminate heat-related service unless it notified the local social services commissioner (orally, then in writing within 5 days) and the commissioner reported that the risk is not likely or an alternative was found; if no report within 15 business days of the written referral the utility may use its discretion. Customer stays liable ((c)(2)). | 72-hour contact in cold season ((c)(2)(i)); final notice 15 days before termination after a medical certificate expires ((a)(6)). | Elderly/blind/disabled: plan may include deferred payment agreement ((b)(2)); medical emergency: commission designees help work out payment arrangements ((a)(7)). | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| North Carolina | NCUC Rule R12-11 (Disconnection of residential customer's electric service); also R12-8, R12-12 | winter: No blanket season ban. | At least 10 days written notice of proposed termination, with stated reasons, date, installment option, contact info; third-party notice option; good-faith contact attempt (phone or visit) at least 24 hours before termination; personal contact at premises immediately before termination (R12-11(l)-(n)). Bill due date at least 25 days after billing date. Generic R12-8 sets 5 days notice minimum. | Notice must say service will not be terminated if customer shows inability to pay in full and agrees to a reasonable installment agreement bringing the account into balance within six months (R12-11(l)(3)). | Rule text read; state official (NCUC consolidated rules PDF, text extracted) |
| North Dakota | N.D. Admin. Code 69-09-02-05.1 (Discontinuance of electric service) | winter: no season or temperature ban found in the text read; heat: no season or temperature ban found in the text read | Written notice by first-class mail (personal delivery for 65+/handicapped), at least ten calendar days before discontinuance; must state amount, PSC phone number, rights incl. | Customer has the right to work out a satisfactory deferred installment agreement; if customer enters one, service may not be terminated (while complied with). | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Ohio | Ohio Adm. Code 4901:1-18-06 | winter: Nov 1 - Apr 15: if the customer has not paid or arranged payment by the date on the 14-day notice, utility must not disconnect unless it also makes contact ten days before disconnection (personal, phone or hand-delivered; mail allowed with 3 calendar days added), tells the customer about government bill and weatherization aid, and informs of payment plans or PIPP plus; ten-day notice extends the date by ten days ((B)). The LII copy of (B) has leftover garbled text from an amendment (e.g. 'where the date of disconnection occurs within During the period...'). | At least 14 days' notice before disconnection, during normal business hours; no disconnection after 12:30 p.m. | Notice must explain payment plans under 4901:1-18-05 and PIPP plus; in Nov 1 - Apr 15 customers must be told of the right to enter payment plans ((A)(5)(g), (B)(3)). | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Oklahoma | OAC 165:35-21-10, -11, -20 (Oklahoma Corporation Commission, Chapter 35 Electric Utility Rules) | winter: If the NWS local forecast predicts below 32 F at any time in the next 24 hours, utility must suspend disconnection where electric service is used for heating (forecast taken 6-8 a.m. | First residential notice: at least 10 days written notice from mailing by first-class mail; 24-hour written notice for other cases (e.g. | Utility must offer a deferred payment agreement before disconnecting a residential customer who cannot pay in full; no disconnection if customer enters one (can be entered up to the day before disconnection). Payments need not be equal. | Rule text read; state official (OCC chapter 35 PDF, effective 10-1-24 edition) |
| Oregon | OAR 860-021-0407 (severe weather), 0410 (medical), 0405 (notice), 0415 (payment), 0320, 0305 | winter: 0407(1): moratorium on residential nonpayment disconnection any day a high temperature of less than 32F is forecast by the applicable weather reporting service; stays in effect at least through the start of next business day; forecast must be obtained by 8 a.m.; the 32F threshold does not apply if the utility offers a Commission-approved winter protection program (0407(8)). 0405(9)(b)(B): remote-disconnect phone-call procedure may not first be implemented in Nov 1-Apr 30.; heat: 0407(2): electric utility must put a moratorium on residential nonpayment disconnection any day a local Heat Advisory is issued. | 0405(3),(5): at least 15 days' written notice by personal service or first-class mail; not before the bill due date; (6),(8): five-business-day notice in certain other cases; (9): good-faith personal contact on the day or, for remote disconnect, three business days before. Notice must give reason, earliest date, amount, Commission complaint process and toll-free number, payment/medical information. 0305(2): nonpayment disconnections best efforts 8 a.m.-2 p.m. | 0415: no disconnection for nonpayment if customer enters a written time-payment plan; utility must offer a levelized plan (average annual bill/12 down payment and 11 payments) or equal-pay arrearage plan (1/12 of arrears). | Rule text read; other mirror (oregon.public.law, rule text accessed May 26, 2025 per page); 0305 also read on Cornell LII |
| Pennsylvania | 52 Pa. Code § 56.100 | winter: Unless the Commission otherwise authorizes, Dec 1 - Mar 31 an electric distribution utility may not terminate service to customers with household income at or below 250% of the federal poverty level, except as § 56.100 or § 56.98 (immediate termination: unauthorized use, fraud, tampering, tariff violations) allows ((b)). Accounts in a landlord ratepayer's name also protected Dec 1 - Mar 31 except § 56.98 grounds ((f)). | Not set in § 56.100 itself; refers to §§ 56.91-56.95 (notice and personal contact), not read. | verify with commission | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Rhode Island | 810-RICR-10-00-1 (Rules and Regulations Governing the Termination of Residential Electric, Gas and Water Service), esp. 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.9, 1.17(F) | winter: Moratorium period Nov 1 to May 1 (amended to May 1 effective 6/23/2025). | Written notice mailed to be received at least 10 days before disconnection; no disconnection Fri/Sat/Sun, legal holidays or day before, or outside 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Utilities must offer a 10- or 12-month budget payment plan and inform customers; customer may instead settle balance over up to 6 months with minimum $25/month; detailed deferred plans in 1.10 (not read in full). | Rule text read; state official (RI Secretary of State Code of Regulations) |
| South Carolina | S.C. Code Regs. 103-342 and 103-352 (Procedures for Termination of Service); 103-345 | winter: December through March: no termination of residential service if customer or household member furnishes a physician-signed certificate that termination would be especially dangerous to health, plus customer states inability to pay by installments. Not a blanket ban; no temperature trigger found. | At least 10 days mailed notice of termination with payment/installment info and ORS contact; also reasonable effort to phone or visit no more than 2 business days before, or mail notice no more than 3 business days before. Termination only Mon-Thu, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., not day before office closure. | Utility must arrange a deferred payment plan for residential customers unable to pay: not less than 1/6 of balance, term not over 6 months, customer keeps account current; no termination unless customer informed of plan. | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| South Dakota | ARSD 20:10:20:03, 20:10:20:05, 20:10:20:06, 20:10:20:10, 20:10:20:11 | winter: Nov 1 to Mar 31: utility may not disconnect residential service without adding 30 extra days to the normal payment/notice periods, and must notify customer of the additional 30 days (20:10:20:10). | Customer needs payment period of at least 20 days from billing to due date plus 10-day notice period; written notice mailed/delivered; first disconnection also requires personal notice (phone, visit or certificate of mailing); notices state right to appeal. No disconnection Friday, Saturday, Sunday, holidays or when offices closed. | Disconnection conditions include that the customer is unwilling to enter a reasonable agreement to liquidate the debt, so an agreement offer is effectively required (20:10:20:03(4)). | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Tennessee | Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 1220-04-04-.19 (cited in the PDF as 1220-4-4-.19, Tennessee Regulatory Authority rules, ch. 1220-4-4, July 2006 revision), with .03, .20, .23 | winter: No season or temperature ban found in the text read.; heat: No season or temperature ban found in the text read. | Termination notice (may be on the bill) must set a date at least 7 days after it is sent by first class mail; must state reason, reconnection fee info, utility contact, and name/address of the regulator; for nonpayment must say if bill is actual or estimated. No termination on a day, or the day before a day, when the utility is closed to the public for reconnection (except hazard/tampering/unauthorized-use cases). | Notice must give number where customer can 'enter into a service continuation agreement'; policy statement must explain alternative payment arrangements for residential customers temporarily unable to pay. No fixed installment terms in text read. | Rule text read; state official (TN Secretary of State rules PDF) |
| Texas | 16 Tex. Admin. Code § 25.483 | winter: No disconnection for nonpayment for any customer in a county with an 'extreme weather emergency': a day when the previous day's high did not exceed 32F and is predicted to stay at or below 32F for the next 24 hours anywhere in the county per nearest NWS reports ((j)(1)(A)).; heat: Same ban when the NWS issues a heat advisory for the county, or issued one on any of the preceding two calendar days ((j)(1)(B)). | Notice may not be issued before the first day after the bill is due; must be a separate mailing, hand delivery or (if agreed) separate email labelled 'disconnection notice', with a disconnection date at least 10 days after issue that is not a holiday, weekend or day staff cannot take payments ((l)). Notice must carry the reason, amount overdue, fees, how to avoid disconnection, and a toll-free number ((m)). | During an extreme weather emergency the REP must offer residential customers, on request, a deferred payment plan meeting § 25.480 for bills due during the emergency ((j)). | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Utah | Utah Admin. Code R746-200-7 | winter: No calendar or temperature ban found in the text read. | G(1): at least 10 calendar days written notice (30 days if life-supporting equipment statement), by first-class mail or delivery to premises (email if enrolled paperless); G(2): 48-hour notice by mail/phone/visit before termination. Disconnection only 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and not from Thursday 4 p.m. to Monday 9 a.m. or on Utah legal holidays (H). Under $25 balance not a ground unless no payment for two months. | D(2)(b): for life-support accounts, offer deferred payment agreement under R746-200-5, or if not applicable allow one month to enter agreement of up to 12 months. | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Vermont | Vt. PUC Rule 3.300 (Disconnection of Residential Gas, Electric, and Water Service), secs. 3.301-3.307 | winter: Nov 1-Mar 31: no gas/electric disconnection unless extra contact steps met (oral contact within 96 hours, further attempts, report to Dept of Public Service); disconnection prohibited if NWS forecast shows below 10 F in a 48-hour period starting 7-10 a.m. on the planned date; households with a member aged 62+ protected if below 32 F forecast over 48 hours, if account holder gives advance written notice.; heat: No season or temperature ban found in the text read. | Written notice on approved form (or electronic notice) sent not more than 20 nor less than 14 days before first disconnection date, within 40 days after delinquency; disconnection window 8 a.m.-2 p.m. (remote 9-11 a.m.). Delinquency = unpaid 30 days after bill transmitted. | No disconnection if customer has not been offered a reasonable repayment plan (and, for gas/electric, a monthly installment plan for future bills). | Rule text read; state official (Vermont Public Utility Commission PDF) |
| Virginia | Va. Code 56-245.1:3 and 56-245.1:4; 56-247.1(A)(4); 20VAC5-330-10 to -40 | winter: Electric utility may not disconnect residential customer for nonpayment when forecast low is at or below 32 F within the 24 hours after the scheduled disconnection (NWS local forecast).; heat: Same bar when forecast temperature is at or above 92 F within 24 hours after scheduled disconnection. | Statute: at least two of mail, email, text, phone call, door hanger; no disconnection until account is 60 days in arrears and utility has offered payment assistance/plan; 56-247.1(A)(4): 10 days' notice by mail for electric/gas. No disconnection on Fridays, weekends, state holidays or the day before one. | Utility must make reasonable efforts to offer bill payment assistance, arrange a payment plan, or give information on other assistance after each missed payment; deposit to restore capped at 25% of arrearage for HEAP-funded customers (once every three years). | Rule text read; state official (Virginia Law / LIS) |
| Washington | WAC 480-100-143 (winter) and WAC 480-100-128 (disconnection) | winter: WAC 480-100-143: between November 15 and March 15 an electric utility may not discontinue residential space heating service if the customer notifies of inability to pay, self-certifies household income through a state-funded grantee, applies for energy assistance and weatherization, and agrees to pay by the next October 15 and pay monthly at no more than seven percent of monthly income plus one-twelfth of billings. Utility may disconnect if arrangements are not kept (with required notice contents). 128(11): utility tariff must set conditions for stopping disconnection in inclement weather.; heat: no hot-weather ban found in the text read, except 128(11) tariff provision on inclement weather events | 128(4): two separate notices: first in writing (mail or door) at least eight business days before disconnection (11 days if mailed from outside WA/OR/ID); second at least two business days before by door delivery, mailed 3 business days before, or two phone attempts; includes energy assistance info, and between Nov 15 and Mar 15 the winter payment plan. No disconnection on Saturdays, Sundays, legal holidays or days service cannot be restored same or next day (g). | WAC 480-100-143 plan as above (seven percent of income); WAC 480-100-138 payment arrangements referenced but not read. | Rule text read; state official |
| West Virginia | W. Va. CSR 150-3 (Rules for the Government of Electric Utilities), Rule 4.8 (utility discontinuance of service) | winter: Nov 1-Mar 31 is a 'Seasonal Time Period': no ban, but utility must make three personal-contact attempts (incl. | Written Form 14-E by first class mail postmarked at least 10 days before termination, plus 2 (or 3) personal-contact attempts on separate business days, last one at least 48 hours before. No disconnection on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, legal holidays, days before a day payment cannot be accepted, or outside 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Residential customer may negotiate a deferred payment agreement; standard plan is 12 monthly payments with 2% service fee (shorter term accepted on request); non-standard plan negotiable; customer may seek PSC help. | Rule text read; state official (WV Secretary of State CSR, Word file; PDF is image-only) |
| Wisconsin | Wis. Admin. Code PSC 113.0301, 113.0304, 113.0404, 113.01 | winter: PSC 113.0304 applies Nov 1-Apr 15 to nonpayment disconnection of service providing the primary heat source: utility may disconnect only households above 250% of federal poverty guidelines where health/safety would not be endangered; last resort only; no disconnection on Friday, Saturday, Sunday or holiday; in-person visit by end of next work day after disconnection.; heat: PSC 113.0301(16): no disconnection in affected counties while an NWS heat advisory, warning or emergency is in effect; reconnection attempts if occupant reports threat to health/life (physician or official statement may be required). | 10 calendar days' written notice by first class mail or personal service on a responsible adult; if not disconnected within 20 days, a further notice left on premises 24-48 hours before; reasonable effort at personal/phone contact; 20 days from bill issuance to pay. | Utility must offer deferred payment agreements to residential accounts; must allow service to continue if a reasonable amount is paid and the rest in installments (factors: ability to pay, history, household size, income). | Rule text read; Cornell LII |
| Wyoming | Wyo. PSC Rules, Ch. 3, Sec. 9 (Discontinuation of Service to Customers), Secs. 10-11, as shown in 2017 proposed-rules filing (Docket 90000-130-XO-17) | winter: Utility must try actual contact (in person or phone) before discontinuing in Nov 1-Apr 30. | At least 7 calendar days' notice to residential customers (3 for commercial/industrial), in person, by phone after verification, or received by U.S. | No discontinuation if customer has agreed to a payment arrangement over a reasonable time and complies. | Secondary source; other (Wyoming Legislature administrative-rules filing PDF, proposed text; LII/Justia mirrors not reachable) |
Source: the rule text named in each row (link in the last column), read on 2 October 2026. Where a cell says "verify with commission" we found no statement in the text we read. CSV, 51 rows, with the quote and the full source URL.
Patterns
Three kinds of protection show up: weather triggers (a forecast temperature or an advisory), calendar windows (a winter period), and customer status (medical certificate, age, income). They are conditions, not blanket bans, and most name exceptions. Many apply to investor-owned utilities and leave co-ops and city utilities to their own boards; the Covers column in the CSV says what each text says.
Protections delay a shutoff; they do not erase what you owe. Missing a form deadline can end the protection.
What to do if you are behind
Call the utility before the notice date and ask for a payment plan in writing. Ask about the state program and the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program through your state energy office; see help paying your bill, state by state. Keep every notice and note the date and name of each call.
If the answer is no and you think a rule applies, file a complaint with your state commission; each state help page lists the commission and its line.
What we did not verify
Utility-specific tariffs, municipal and co-op rules, sections of a rule we did not open, and rules set by commission order rather than in the rule. Rules for gas and water are separate; we describe electric service. Rules change, and where a text carries an effective date we show it in the state paragraph.
Key facts and where they come from
| Fact | Value | Source | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| States and DC with rule text read | 49 | Rule text named per state, see table | retrieved 2026-10-02 |
| States and DC with a secondary source | 2 | Commission page or mirror, see table | retrieved 2026-10-02 |
| States and DC with the federal summary only | 0 | HHS ACF LIHEAP Clearinghouse disconnect policies, updated April 2026 | retrieved 2026-10-02 |
| Texas rule | No disconnection for nonpayment for any customer in a county with an 'extreme weather emergency': a day when the previous day's high did not exceed 32F and is predicted to stay at or below 32F for the next 24 hours anywhere in the county per nearest NWS reports ((j)(1)(A)). | 16 Tex. Admin. Code § 25.483 via Cornell LII | retrieved 2026-10-02 |
| Pennsylvania rule | Unless the Commission otherwise authorizes, Dec 1 - Mar 31 an electric distribution utility may not terminate service to customers with household income at or below 250% of the federal poverty level, except as § 56.100 or § 56.98 (immediate termination: unauthorized use, fraud, tampering, tariff violations) allows ((b)). Accounts in a landlord ratepayer's name also protected Dec 1 - Mar 31 except § 56.98 grounds ((f)). | 52 Pa. Code § 56.100 via Cornell LII | retrieved 2026-10-02 |
| Maryland rule | A utility may not terminate service for nonpayment to any customer if its designated weather station area is in a winter extreme weather period: 72 hours from 6 a.m., three consecutive 24-hour segments, in each of which the forecast temperature is not expected to exceed 32F; re-determined every 24 hours at 6 a.m. (.04A; .01.02B(9)(a)). | COMAR 20.31.03.04 (with definition in COMAR 20.31.01.02B(9)) via Cornell LII (definitions read at https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/maryland/COMAR-20-31-01-02) | retrieved 2026-10-02 |
| Massachusetts rule | Between Nov 15 and Mar 15 a company may not shut off or refuse to restore service where the customer certifies that the service provides heat or runs the heating system, it was not shut off for nonpayment before Nov 15, and the customer cannot pay because of financial hardship ((1)(a)3, (1)(b)). No shutoff-threat notices Nov 15 - Mar 15 to a customer who gave notice of hardship unless the Department authorizes ((5)). Heating accounts get phone or personal notice no earlier than 3 days before shutoff in that period ((7)). | 220 CMR 25.03 via Cornell LII | retrieved 2026-10-02 |
| Ohio rule | Nov 1 - Apr 15: if the customer has not paid or arranged payment by the date on the 14-day notice, utility must not disconnect unless it also makes contact ten days before disconnection (personal, phone or hand-delivered; mail allowed with 3 calendar days added), tells the customer about government bill and weatherization aid, and informs of payment plans or PIPP plus; ten-day notice extends the date by ten days ((B)). The LII copy of (B) has leftover garbled text from an amendment (e.g. 'where the date of disconnection occurs within During the period...'). | Ohio Adm. Code 4901:1-18-06 via Cornell LII | retrieved 2026-10-02 |
Related guides
Questions
Can my power be shut off in winter?
In some states with conditions, not in others. The table lists the winter or cold-weather point for each state where we found it in the rule text; where it says verify with commission, we found none.
Is there a temperature rule?
Some states tie protection to a forecast temperature, for example 32°F in Texas and Colorado; check the row for your state.
How much notice must I get?
It varies by state. The Notice column gives the days and method where the text we read states them.
Is there a federal rule?
We did not verify a single federal rule that bars shutoffs for unpaid bills. State and utility rules are the ones that apply.
Who do I complain to?
Your state utility commission. Name varies: public utility commission, public service commission or department of public utilities. Each state help page lists it.
Do the rules cover co-ops and city utilities?
Not always. Municipal and co-op systems are often outside the commission's rules or have their own. The Covers column in the CSV records what each text says.
How current is this page?
The rule text was read on 2026-10-02. Rules change. Confirm with your commission before you rely on a date or number.
What if I rely on medical equipment?
Many states have a medical certificate process; the Who is protected point on each state help page gives it where we read it. Tell the utility early and ask for the process in writing.