Drones Over Dirt Roads: Pipelines Go High-Tech Patrol
Published Date: 4/24/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
PHMSA is making it clear that pipeline companies can use cool new tech like drones and satellites to check their gas and hazardous liquid pipelines instead of just walking or driving. This change helps companies keep pipelines safe in smarter, faster ways without extra costs. Pipeline operators need to follow these updated rules and can share their thoughts by June 23, 2026.
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Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Operators May Use Drones and Satellites
If you operate gas, hazardous liquid, or carbon dioxide pipelines, PHMSA proposes that you may use remote sensing technologies (for example, unmanned aerial systems/drones and satellites) for right-of-way patrols. These methods are allowed provided they give current information and imaging quality comparable to traditional patrols and meet existing patrol performance expectations.
Estimated $26.2M Annual Industry Savings
PHMSA estimates the proposed change will produce annualized cost savings of $26.2 million and says those savings may also reduce costs passed to the public. The agency preliminarily expects the rule to reduce regulatory burdens and be deregulatory overall.
Patrol Frequency Requirements Stay the Same
PHMSA is not changing how often patrols must occur: gas transmission lines must be patrolled between one and four times each calendar year depending on class location and crossings, and hazardous liquid and carbon dioxide pipelines must be inspected at least 26 times each calendar year (intervals not exceeding 3 weeks). Operators must continue to meet those existing frequency requirements even if they use remote sensing.
PHMSA Certifies No Significant Small-Entity Impact
PHMSA certifies under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that the proposed rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities and says the rule is expected to reduce regulatory burdens rather than add them. PHMSA states it does not expect additional burdens on any operator.
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