Information for our communities
16055 Space Center Blvd, Suite 350
Houston, TX 77062
United States
Working together for Pipeline safety
Pipeline safety starts with awareness and partnership. We work hard to keep our systems safe and reliable, but we also know every group has its own questions and concerns. That's why we collaborate with residents, businesses, farmers, ranchers, emergency responders and contractors to share information and provide the support needed to keep communities protected.
Residents and businesses
If you live or work near a pipeline, you play a vital role in keeping your community safe. Whether you're planting a tree or installing a fence, call 811 before you dig to have underground utilities marked, free of charge. Permanent structures, such as houses, mobile homes, trailers, shops, barns, stables, sheds, pools, decks, trees and septic tanks, should not be placed along a pipeline right-of-way (ROW). These structures may obstruct access to the pipelines. Obstructions, also called encroachments, can impair the pipeline operator's ability to observe the pipeline and are prohibited.
Farmers and ranchers
If your land includes or borders a pipeline right-of-way, deep excavation activities like trenching or post-hole digging require extra caution. Always contact 811 before starting work, even in remote areas.
As with residents and businesses, farming and ranching encroachments can impair the pipeline operator's ability to observe the pipeline and are prohibited.
Emergency responders and local officials
With over 300,000 miles of transmission pipelines in the U.S., it's likely a pipeline runs through your jurisdiction. We work closely with first responders and local agencies to ensure awareness, coordination and preparedness in the event of a pipeline emergency.
Excavators and contractors
Heavy machinery and digging near pipelines can pose serious risks. Before any excavation, contact 811 to have pipelines marked. This simple step protects workers, equipment and the surrounding community.