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Interpretation Response #PI-76-0104


Below is the interpretation response detail and a list of regulations sections applicable to this response.

Interpretation Response Details

Response Publish Date: 05-26-1976

Location state: MI    Country: US

View the Interpretation Document

Request text:

May 6, 1976

Mr. A. Furow, 
Chief Regulation Division Office of Pipeline Safety
Material Transportation Bureau
Department of Transportation
2100 Second Street
Washington D.C.  20590

Dear Mr. Furow:
The attached private gas transmission line is being presently constructed in the county road right-
of-way through a rural area.  As far as I can determine there are no set back rules in terms of
existing structures.  The pipeline will have an anticipated operating pressure of 400 pounds and
falls about 20 feet from my basement.  It appears to fall even closer to other houses along the
right-of-way.  To the best of my knowledge they have complied with Michigan's safety code. However,
it is my feeling that in the proximity of occupied housing a conduit should be installed and
vented.  Otherwise there should be some set back rules particularly in heavy clay areas.

Does the Federal Government have any set back rules on constructions of this kind or are such
matters left up to the state authorities?
 

Sincerely, 

Robert E. Ives
3632 E. Five Point Hwy. Charlotte, Michigan  48813
Enclosure


Response text:

May 26, 1976

Mr. Robert E. Ives
3632 E. Five Point Highway
Charlotte, Michigan  48813

Dear Mr. Ives:
This responds to your letter of May 6, 1976, concerning "set back" rules for gas pipelines in the
proximity of occupied housing.

Under the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968, the Michigan Public Service Commission has
adopted and enforces the Federal gas pipeline safety standards (49 CFR Part 192) against intrastate
gas pipeline within the Commission's jurisdiction.  The Federal standards do not contain "set back"
rules, but do, however, provide for adequate safety through other types of requirements which
increase in stringency depending on the proximity of a pipeline to occupied areas. At the same
time, the Michigan Commission may impose additional or more stringent safety requirements.

Sincerely, 
Cesar DeLeon 
Acting Director Office of Pipeline Safety Operations


Regulation Sections

Section Subject
§ 192.1 What is the scope of this part?