Pipeline Permits

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If your business requires large volume natural gas or a hazardous liquid pipeline service, a pipeline permit may be required. Contact the Iowa Utilities Board.  Iowa Code Chapter 479 applies to intrastate pipelines transporting natural gas and any solid, liquid, or gaseous substance, except water. Iowa Code Chapter 479B applies to pipelines transporting hazardous liquids, defined as crude oil, refined petroleum products, liquefied petroleum gases, anhydrous ammonia, liquid fertilizers, liquefied carbon dioxide, alcohols, and coal slurries.  For gas, a pipeline permit is required for any intrastate pipeline which will operate at a pressure in excess of 150 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) or which, regardless of operating pressure, is a transmission line as defined in ASME B31.8 or 49 CFR 192.3. Using the factors set out in rule 199—10.14(479), the board shall determine whether a pipeline is a transmission line and requires a permit. A pipeline permit is required for construction of any hazardous liquid pipeline.

Code Citation Iowa Code Chapters 479 and 479B

Who Applies Anyone wanting to construct a natural gas or hazardous liquid transmission pipeline.

When To Apply Cannot apply to the IUB until at least 30 days after the last public informational meeting is conducted, if required. This also applies to renewal permits.

Initial Requirements The requirements for an intrastate natural gas pipeline can be found in Iowa Administrative Code 199—10. The requirements for a hazardous liquid pipeline can be found in Iowa Administrative Code 199—13.

Duration 25 years.

Processing Time Approximately ten months from petition filing, which does not include precursor public informational meetings or the public hearing, if required.

Fee Structure Fees are based on Iowa Utilities Board staff time required for review and processing consistent with Iowa Code 479 and 479B.

Renewal Requirements 25 years.

Exam Does not pertain.

Additional Information None.