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196

Part 196: PROTECTION OF UNDERGROUND PIPELINES FROM EXCAVATION ACTIVITY

Below are the available interpretations and guidance for the given section. To return to the list of parts, use the Parts link above. If you do not see any guidance or interpretation information below, that means there is none available for the given part/section. Return to the search page to browse additional regulations sections.

PHMSA has published several Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) documents on regulatory topics. Please review our FAQ documents below:

https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/about-phmsa/phmsa-faqs.

Additionally PHMSA has Hazardous Materials FAQs based on letters of interpretation on the following topics:

This section of the website provides the ability to find regulations information including regulations parts, content of sections, and interpretations for regulations sections. Below is a list of parts, identified by the part number and subject. To browse sections by part, click on the subject link below. You will be taken to the eCFR website to view sections for a part.

A written regulatory interpretation, response to a question, or an opinion concerning a pipeline safety issue may be obtained by submitting a written request to the Office of Pipeline Safety (PHP–30), PHMSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590–0001 or at the email address: pipeline_interp_submittal@dot.gov. In addition to email address, the requestor must include his or her return address and should also include a daytime telephone number. Requests should be submitted at least 120 days before the time the requestor needs a response.

Note: electronic submission is provided as alternative to the 49 CFR Part 190.11(b) mail-in requirement.

The regulations text of the section can be found on the eCFR website. To view the regulations text, use the link below. For assistance, please send an email to PHMSA.Webmaster@dot.gov.

View part 196 on the ECFR website

Regulation Sections

Section Subject
196.1 What is the purpose and scope of this part?
196.3 Definitions
196.101 What is the purpose and scope of this subpart?
196.103 What must an excavator do to protect underground pipelines from excavation-related damage?
196.107 What must an excavator do if a pipeline is damaged by excavation activity?
196.109 What must an excavator do if damage to a pipeline from excavation activity causes a leak where product is released from the pipeline?
196.111 What if a pipeline operator fails to respond to a locate request or fails to accurately locate and mark its pipeline?
196.201 What is the purpose and scope of this subpart?
196.203 What is the administrative process PHMSA will use to conduct enforcement proceedings for alleged violations of excavation damage prevention requirements?
196.205 Can PHMSA assess administrative civil penalties for violations?
196.207 What are the maximum administrative civil penalties for violations?
196.209 May other civil enforcement actions be taken?
196.211 May criminal penalties be imposed?