• Transmission lines are large diameter pipes that move large amounts of natural gas from the delivery point into New Jersey to South Jersey Gas’ distribution system
• Natural gas is delivered or distributed through underground pipelines or “mains”. Mains are usually located along or under local streets and highways
• Smaller service lines connect to the mains to further distribute natural gas service to homes and businesses. These pipelines are a reliable, efficient and safe way to deliver Natural gas throughout the region
• Serious incidents related to the transmission of natural gas are extremely rare in the United States 
• American Gas Association statistics indicate the leading cause of pipeline damage is the result of people excavating. Other causes include corrosion, material defects, worker error and acts of nature
• South Jersey Gas uses line markers to indicate the general location of our transmission lines. The markers are yellow and stand about 4 feet high. They are labeled, “Warning Gas Pipeline: South Jersey Gas.” All pipeline markers include an emergency phone number that is staffed 24-hours a day
• The strip of land over a transmission pipeline is known as the pipeline right-of-way, or ROW. Local utility companies maintain the ROW to ensure the safety of the pipeline. South Jersey Gas patrols its transmission lines monthly to look for damage or activity by excavators and also ensure the ROW is free of vegetation
• If a ROW crosses your property, please be sure that any fencing enclosing the area has gates to allow utility employees to gain direct access. The ROW must also be free of structures or obstructions so South Jersey Gas can operate, test, inspect, maintain and protect the transmission lines. If existing vegetation needs to be trimmed and/or removed, South Jersey Gas will contact you 10 to 14 days prior to clearing the width of our ROW
• If you notice any type of dumping of debris on or near South Jersey Gas lines, please report all illegal dumping to the police
• South Jersey Gas asks everyone to help identify potential problems before they occur. If you or anyone you know is planning excavation activities make sure to call 811 three days prior to digging so a technician can come out and mark out the area. Marking out of public utilities is free. Once the site is marked, please respect all marks and hand dig within two feet of the buried pipeline
• Calling 811 before you dig is the law. Failure to contact 811 before you dig can result in damage to underground utilities, causing disruption of vital services, property damage, fatal injury and fines up to $25,000

South Jersey Gas wants to ensure commercial/industrial customers with privately-owned service lines know their responsibility.

If you own your service lines, you need to be aware and adhere to the following information contained in the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR 192.16 - Customer Notification).

South Jersey Gas does not maintain customers' buried piping. If the customer’s buried piping is not maintained, it may be subject to the potential hazards of corrosion and leakage. Buried gas piping should be:

• Periodically inspected for leaks
• Periodically inspected for corrosion if the piping is metallic and repaired if any unsafe condition is discovered
• When excavating near buried gas piping, the piping should be located in advance and the excavation done by hand.
• South Jersey Gas, plumbers and heating contractors can assist in locating, inspecting and repairing the customer’s buried piping for a fee.

If you have any questions about these regulations, please contact Customer Contact Center with the link below or calling 888-766-9900
 

Customer Contact Center