Texas Pipeline Damage Prevention Program
History Overview
The State of Texas adopted its first damage prevention law in 1999, during the 76th Legislative Session. The law became effective in September 1999. Title 5, Provisions Affecting the Operation of Utility Facilities, Texas Utilities Code §251 Underground Facility Damage Prevention and Safety provides Texas with the requirement for participating and belonging to one- call centers for the purpose of locating pipelines prior to excavation activities. The law created the Texas Underground Facility Notification Corporation to provide statewide notification services that include the oversight of the state’s one-call centers and oversees the registration of underground facility operators.
The Corporation’s enforcement authority is found in Utilities Code §251.2011, and provides warnings and training requirements for those that violate certain sections of the law. With this limited enforcement authority, the legislature adopted House Bill 2161, and Senate Bill 9, which give the Railroad Commission enforcement authority for the movement of earth near pipelines.
In June 2007 the Railroad Commission of Texas adopted Chapter 18, entitled Underground Pipeline Damage Prevention §18.1-18.12, and became effective September 2007.
MISSION STATEMENT: The Pipeline Safety Section through the Damage Prevention Program is committed to the promotion of public awareness and education to minimize damage to underground pipelines and facilities. The Safety Division’s ultimate goal is to ensure pipeline safety to all the citizens of Texas.
State Rule
Title 16 , Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Part 1
Chapter 18 Underground Pipeline Damage
Reporting No Damage Alleged Non-Compliance Activities
Brochure on Excavator Reporter Guidelines
Brochure on Operator Reporter Guidelines
Contact Information
Phone: 512-475-0512
Email: tdrfinfo@rrc.state.tx.us
One-Call Board of Texas
Notification Call Centers
Texas One-Call System
Lone Star/Notification One-Call Concepts
Texas Excavation Safety System (TESS)
Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQ’s
Links
Common Ground Alliance
CGA: Best Practices v. 4.0
Texas Register
Texas Statutes
Texas Legislative
Texas On-Line
1-800-545-6005