Pipeline Info For Beginners

If for whatever reason you are just getting started trying to figure out what pipelines are near you, who operates and regulates them, and why they are there, this page is a good place to start. Below you will find some very basic information, with links to where you can find out more. Just keep clicking till you know as much as you want about the pipelines that run through your state. We have also prepared a set of briefing papers on pipeline safety topics for beginners. You can find those briefing papers here.

Different Types of Pipelines

Pipelines are divided up into different categories depending on what they carry, and where they go. Understanding these categories is important because they determine how pipelines are constructed and regulated.

Hazardous Liquid Pipelines carry fuels like gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, etc.

Gas Pipelines carry natural gas.

Transmission Pipelines are the larger lines that move gas and liquids around the country

Distribution Pipelines are the smaller lines that move mainly gas within communities and to our individual homes and businesses.

Interstate Pipelines are lines that cross state or national boundaries

Intrastate Pipelines are lines that do not cross state boundaries.

Pipeline Basics
If you are interested in learning more about the pipeline system in the U.S., and how pipelines are constructed and operated click here.

What Pipelines Are Near You?
There are over 2 million miles of pipeline in the United States. To see what pipelines are near you, and who operates them, click here.

Who Regulates Pipelines?
Pipeline regulation is somewhat complicated, and depends on the type of pipeline (interstate or intrastate), and different types of regulation (safety, siting, spills, etc.).
Click here to find out who regulates pipelines in your state.
Click here for a description of the pipeline regulation puzzle.
Click here to find out about state specific regulations and regulators.

Call Before You Dig!! – Dial 811!
Because of the danger of hitting a pipeline or other utility — not to mention it is the law is some states — anyone who plans on planting a tree or operating a backhoe, needs to call the Utility Locator service. To have all utilities accurately located and marked, just dial 811. So, remember to save you from dialing 911, make sure you dial 811 to locate the utilities below.

What to do in an Emergency
The chances of a pipeline leak or explosion in your area are relatively small, but the consequences can be huge. Knowing what to do, and what not to do could save your life. Click here to be ready.