geomatics

Third-Party Construction Project

Work conducted near high-pressure natural gas pipelines must be subject to a permit application.

When is it necessary to obtain a permit for work performed by a third party?

The requirement to obtain a permit for work near natural gas pipelines ensures that the necessary safety measures are in place and that the pipelines are protected from damage.

Activities within the safety zone (10 meters on either side of the gas pipeline) and the protection zones (generally with a radius of 30 meters around the stations) are subject to authorization

Work may begin only after the permit has been issued.

List ofconstruction activities subject to permits:

• Activity at a depth greater than 40 cm in the soil
• Construction, modification, or repair of a permanent structure—even a temporary one—above ground or underground
• Temporary Installations
• Modification of the pipe covering
• Land-Use Change
• Demonstration
• Plowing and deep soil loosening

Art. 28 Pipeline Transportation Facilities Act (LITC)

The construction or modification of third-party structures or facilities may be authorized only with the agency’s consent if the structure or facility:

a. Crosses a pipeline facility;
b. Poses a risk of compromising the safety of the pipeline facility.

Art. 30 Ordinance on Pipeline Transportation Facilities (OITC)

1. Third parties intending to erect or modify structures or facilities as defined in Article 28 of the LITC must apply to the SFOE for authorization well in advance of the start of construction.

2. The following are deemed to be construction projects within the meaning of Article 28 of the LITC:

a. Excavation work, including deep plowing and soil loosening, backfilling, underground excavation, as well as significant changes in land use within a 10-meter-wide strip of land, measured horizontally on either side of the pipeline, or within the protection perimeter of ancillary facilities and tunnel portals;
b. Blasting operations and the installation of equipment that generates vibrations or causes electrical, chemical, or other effects that could compromise the safety of the pipeline system or its operation.

3. The obligation to seek authorization from the SFOE arises when the decision approving the plans becomes effective.

4. The company shall remind the affected landowners, in writing and at least once every four years, that pursuant to paragraph 1, it is mandatory to obtain authorization from the OFEN to carry out a construction project. Any failure to comply with this requirement shall be reported immediately to the OFEN.

Authorization Procedure

The authorization process can be simplified and expedited if the required building permit application is submitted directly by third parties in digital form via the Federal Pipeline Inspectorate’s platform.

Apply for a building permit

A request for third-party construction work is required regardless of any other permitting procedures. Permits to be issued by other authorities are reserved. Processing of the permit application generally takes three weeks. The permit expires or must be renewed if work does not begin within one year of the permit’s issuance.

Good to Know

The applicant remains solely responsible for complying with the conditions and requirements set forth in the IFP authorization and for ensuring that all parties involved comply with them. Failure to comply with the conditions and requirements of an authorization will result in the matter being reported to the IFP and the initiation of administrative criminal proceedings.

Forms

Link to all forms