                                 CODE OF VIRGINIA

MANNER OF INSTALLING UNDERGROUND UTILITY LINES (§ 56-257)

A. Every operator, as defined in &#xA7; 56-265.15, having the right to install
underground utility lines, as defined in &#xA7; 56-265.15, except interstate gas
pipelines subject to regulation by the U.S. Department of Transportation, shall
install such underground utility lines in accordance with accepted industry
standards. Such standards shall include, as applicable, standards established by
the National Electric Safety Code, the Commission&#8217;s pipeline safety
regulations, the Department of Health&#8217;s waterworks regulations
(12VAC5-590-10 et seq.), and standards established by the Utility Industry
Coalition of Virginia.

B. The Commission shall promulgate any rules or regulations necessary to enforce
the provisions of this section as to those operators that do not comply with
such accepted industry standards.

C. This section shall not authorize the Commission to order action by, or impose
penalties on, any county, city or town. However, the Commission shall inform
counties, cities and towns of alleged violations by the locality of the accepted
industry standards or regulations adopted under this section and, at the request
of the locality, suggest corrective action.

HISTORY: Code 1919, § 4059; 1996, c. 278; 2000, c. 779.