PHMSA & NEPA

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 requires federal agencies to consider the potential environmental and related social and economic impacts of their proposed actions by providing a framework for environmental planning and decision-making. NEPA ensures that federal agencies incorporate these environmental considerations in a systematic interdisciplinary approach. NEPA requires the preparation of environmental assessments (EAs) to assess the environmental impact of discretionary proposed actions and alternatives to analyze any effects on the environment. When a proposed action will have a significant impact of the human environment, the agency prepares an environmental impact statement (EIS).

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is committed to the examination and avoidance of potential impacts to the human and natural environment when considering proposed actions.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) issued DOT Order 5610.1D, DOT's Procedures for Considering Environmental Impacts on June 30, 2025. PHMSA's Environmental Analysis and Compliance Division has developed agency specific NEPA Implementing Procedures and Categorical Exclusions that can be found within DOT Order 5610.1D Subpart E(c)(3)(a).

PHMSA's Mission

PHMSA's mission is to protect people and the environment by advancing the safe transportation of energy and other hazardous materials that are essential to our daily lives. To do this, the agency establishes national policy, sets and enforces standards, educates, and conducts research to prevent incidents. We also prepare the public and first responders to reduce consequences if an incident does occur.

PHMSA Environmental Reviews

PHMSA's environmental staff are responsible for managing the environmental review process for PHMSA action that are subject to NEPA, including rulemakings, special permits (also known as regulatory waivers), and certain grants.

PHMSA does not conduct NEPA reviews for proposed new pipeline construction projects because PHMSA does not have infrastructure permitting or siting authority. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission hold this authority over interstate gas pipelines and is responsible for NEPA review during their development. There is no comprehensive Federal permitting or siting authority for interstate hazardous liquid pipelines unless they cross international borders, are located on federal land, or involve waters of the United States, in which case the appropriate government agencies would be involved. Siting authority for all intrastate pipelines is deferred to state agencies.

PHMSA publishes opportunities for public engagement in the Federal Register and will publish public meeting notices at least 15 days prior to the meeting date. Comment periods for Notices, Proposed Rules, and Final Rules with environmental documentation depend on the class of NEPA action taken.