Standby generators in Denham Springs

Why height comes first here

In August 2016 the Amite River at Denham Springs crested at 46.2 ft on August 14, against a flood stage of 29 ft (National Weather Service), and about 90% of structures in the city took water (The Advocate). A generator sitting in floodwater is a write-off.

So the city's rule is plain: generators must be installed at or above the design flood elevation, typically the finished floor elevation, and the city recommends going at or above the base flood elevation or the flood of record, whichever is higher (permit requirements). The city's planning page links a property flood-risk portal where you can look up your lot and any elevation certificate on file (City of Denham Springs). Expect a raised platform on many lots, and drawings for it with the permit.

What the city wants with the permit

From the city's generator permit requirements and application, forms 00-501 and 00-149, dated November 2020 (requirements, application). Confirm current fees with the office.

Work can't start until the permit is issued and posted. The dealer normally assembles the package; the load calculation is the same one our sizing guide tells you to ask for.

Subdivision rules and servitudes

The city does not enforce private subdivision restrictions, and it asks you to get your association's approval before you apply. A generator also may not sit in a servitude without letters of no objection from everyone with an interest in it (City of Denham Springs). Check your plat for drainage and utility servitudes along the side and back lines before picking a spot.

Natural gas or propane in Denham Springs

The city runs its own gas department, which installs and maintains gas lines and meters inside and beyond the city limits (City of Denham Springs). For a natural gas generator, the permit needs sign-off from the city Utilities Department, (225) 667-8303. A larger generator can outgrow the existing meter, so ask the dealer who arranges any meter change.

For propane, the tank location needs approval from the State Fire Marshal and the Denham Springs Fire Department (permit requirements), and the Fire Department's tank permit is $50 (Fire Department form). Tank sizes and run times are on our gas vs propane page.

Who supplies the power

Depending on the street, electricity comes from Entergy Louisiana or DEMCO, the cooperative that serves much of Livingston Parish. At Hurricane Ida's peak, DEMCO had about 100,000 of its 113,500 meters out (DEMCO). Your bill tells you which one you have; the dealer coordinates with them if the meter base or service needs work. See the outage history for other storms.

Outside city limits

The rules above are the city's. If your address is in unincorporated Livingston Parish, Walker or another town, a different office issues the permit, and gas may come from propane rather than the city system. Ask the dealer which office covers your address before the site visit.

Common questions