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Why date_default_timezone_get() Sometimes Returns UTC Instead of Your Expected Local Timezone: Common Causes Explained

gitbox 2025-09-17
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<h1>Why <code>date_default_timezone_get<span>()

This ensures that the script uses your expected timezone, avoiding reliance on environment configuration.

3. Differences in PHP Version and SAPI Affect Default Timezone Behavior

Different PHP versions or SAPIs (e.g., CLI, FPM, Apache module) may behave differently in reading the default timezone. For example, in command-line mode, the default timezone is more likely UTC, while in web server mode, it depends on the configuration.

It is recommended to test date_default_timezone_get() both from the command line and through a web page to ensure consistent behavior.

4. System Environment Variables and Server Configuration Impact

Some operating system environment variables (e.g., TZ) can affect PHP's timezone detection. If the system or web server environment variable is set to UTC, PHP may also default to UTC.

You can check the environment variable using:

<span><span>echo</span></span><span> </span><span><span class="function_ invoke__">getenv</span></span><span>(</span><span><span>'TZ'</span></span><span>);

If it is UTC, consider adjusting the environment variable or explicitly setting the timezone in the PHP script.

5. Incomplete or Corrupted Timezone Database

PHP relies on the system or built-in timezone database to recognize timezone names. If the timezone database is incomplete or corrupted, PHP may fail to parse the configured timezone correctly and fall back to UTC.

Solutions include updating the operating system's timezone data package or reinstalling PHP.

Summary

When you notice that date_default_timezone_get() returns UTC instead of the expected local timezone, first check your php.ini to ensure date.timezone is correctly set; then explicitly set the timezone in your code; and also verify that your runtime environment and server configuration do not affect the timezone. Understanding these causes helps you prevent timezone confusion and ensures accurate time-related operations.