Gas Rationing to Begin Saturday, Nov. 3

A system of gas dispensation is to begin Saturday, Nov. 3 to combat long lines at the pump in 12 counties throughout the state.

According to a release from the Governor's Office, citizens of the following counties are now limited on the days in which they can fill up their gas tanks, as per the state Office of Emergency Management: Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Morris, Monmouth, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren.

According to the state, plates containing an even number as their final numerical digit can fill up on even numbered days of the month, while plates containing an odd number as their final numerical digit can fill up on odd numbered days of the month.

The number to look for is the final numerical digit contained in the plate number, whether it is the final character on the plate or not, according to the governor's office.

So, for example, a theoretical plate number of "MVM 48Q" would have "8" as its final numerical digit, and would be permitted to fill up on an even day.

Specialized or vanity plates, those not displaying any numbers, will be considered odd numbered plates, the release said.

"Only in cases where there are no numbers and only letters is the plate counted as an odd number," said Kevin Roberts of Gov. Chris Christie's press office in an email to New Brunswick Patch.

This system does not apply to gas cans, such as those for generators, at this time, according to a spokesman from the governor's office.

This system is to begin at noon, Saturday, Nov. 3.

This dispensation system will remain in effect as long as the limited states of energy emergency declared by the state in those counties, the release said.

"With the challenges we face in the storm’s aftermath, we will be vigilant in enforcing this odd-even system, as we ease the stresses on the system," said Attorney General Jeffery S. Chiesa, in a prepared statement. "I encourage all New Jerseyans to abide by this system – motorists and retail dealers alike – to ease wait times and improve access for everyone. Those who choose to disregard this order will be prosecuted to the fullest extent permitted under the Governor’s state of emergency authority."