Rule Overview

PHMSA is revising the Federal Pipeline Safety Regulations to amend the requirements for certain gas transmission pipeline segments that experience a change in class location. The new §192.611(a)(4) Section offers Gas Pipeline Operators a critical alternative to the costly and disruptive requirements of pressure reduction, re-testing, or replacing pipe segments when population growth drives a change from a Class 1 or 2 location to a Class 3 location. Instead, Operators can now maintain the segment's existing Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure (MAOP) by committing to a rigorous, heightened Integrity Management (IM) option. Modeled on the successful class location special permit program, operators can use the IM alternative to confirm the MAOP of eligible Class 3 segments by complying with a comprehensive set of initial and recurring programmatic requirements. Operators can also use the IM alternative to restore the previously established MAOP of eligible Class 3 segments by complying with certain additional requirements.

PHMSA expects this alternative approach to provide long-term safety benefits consistent with the current natural gas pipeline safety rules while also providing cost savings for pipeline operators.

Final Rule Publication Date: January 14, 2026
Effective Date: March 16, 2026

Summary of Regulatory Changes in Table format (see regulatory text for specific requirements):