Right of Way

The Colt Midstream (Colt) system is an extensive network of buried pipelines with above-ground and underground facilities like storage tanks, pumping stations, and compressor stations.

The system crosses thousands of properties as it travels across the state. Rights-of-Way (ROW) exist in various locations, from river crossings to fields to urban areas to sub-Arctic tundra, and because of this, there is no distinct look to the ROW. Pipeline ROW are acquired from landowners, other utilities, or government entities by obtaining an easement, permit, license, or, in limited cases, through purchase. The right-of-way, in most cases, is used to construct, maintain, operate, protect, inspect, maintain and/or
replace one or more pipelines. The right-of-way agreement (and/or easement) creates a permanent limited interest in the land. Rights-of-way vary in width; a right-of-way width of 50 feet is common for Colt, though it can be greater depending on whether there is one pipeline or multiple pipelines within the right-of-way.

The right-of-way:

• Allows our workers access for inspection, maintenance, testing or in an emergency.
• Identifies an area where certain activities are prohibited to protect public safety and the integrity of the pipeline.

Pipeline rights-of-way can be identified by the pipeline markers—located at roads, railways, and other intervals along the ROW—which include the name of the operator, emergency contact information, and a general description of the product in the pipeline. Markers indicate the general location of buried pipelines only and should never be used as a reference for the exact location of a pipeline. The one-call procedure must be used to properly locate pipelines prior to any soil-disturbing activity. For your safety and to protect the pipeline, written permission from Colt Midstream is required prior to planting any shrubs, operating vehicles, or mobile equipment, storing equipment, or using explosives within the pipeline right-of-way. Building or placing a structure and planting trees are also prohibited within the right-of-way.

Underground pipelines are the safest way to move petroleum products – and you can help keep it that way. Statistics indicate that damage from excavation-related activities is a leading cause of pipeline accidents. If you are a homeowner, farmer, excavator, contractor, or developer, we would appreciate your
help in preventing damage to our pipelines. You can do this by calling 811 before any digging project.

A gouge, scrape, dent, crease or other damage to the pipeline or its coating may cause a leak or break. In fact, the major cause of pipeline leaks is earth moving and construction equipment and tools owned by parties other than the pipeline company. Should you discover or cause what seems to be even minor
damage to a Colt Midstream pipeline, immediately notify us.

For Land and Right of Way or Encroachment questions, please call (817) 523-2327 or email ROW@coltmidstream.com.