Experience with Gas Lines Running Through Property

I wouldn't think it would be that hard for a contractor to move the line out of the way of construction. Especially if you're going to have gas appliances, you'd have to modify the existing line to tap into it anyway.

Depending on the size of the pipe, they can be very difficult and costly to move. Also you cannot build anything with a foundation over them. Driveways and paved areas are good but no house.

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Are you talking about a pipeline

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Yes. It's owner by Targa I believe

You need to do some research regarding the age of the pipeline. That should give you an idea of the time when the easement was granted and who the landowner was at that time. Secure a copy of the easement agreement and determine what rights are afforded to you and those afforded to the pipeline operator.

How large is the piece of property? Would the home be 50' from the pipeline or hundreds of yards?

24 acres. Pipeline is near the back of the property.

My parents own a home with a gas pipe line running along the back side of the one acre lot. No problems in the 47 years they have lived there. An airplane flies over real low about once a month looking from leaks/problems. About every 3-5 years a tree trimming crew comes by and clears any trees that need trimming along the easement. The lot is walking distance to MS State campus. I can listen to the football stadium play by play announcer sitting on their back porch and the band playing.

If you do buy, make sure the ROW is completely accessible. If there's an issue, or for annual maintenance, they'll make sure they have access and you probably won't like it.


I used to cut pipeline ROW as a summer job and some people would put up rows and rows of fence perpendicular to the ROW to piss off the pipeline company. Doesn't turn out well for them.

Which state is this tract of land located in. Older easement agreements often didn't specify a R-O-W width. Different jurisdictions vary on how they view how much ground is covered in these non-specific agreements. The general rule of thumb is the pipeline operator has an iron grip on whatever ground they keep cleared and maintained.

With my business I deal with pipelines everyday. A little info for you to know. Prior to the line being constructed an agreement should have been signed and recorded between the pipeline operator and the property owner. This agreement will state the operators rights including the right of way width although prior to the 60's often the width was not stated. Often the agreement allows the operator to access not only their right of way but existing driveways or private roads.

A one time fee was usually paid to the property owner, based upon the number of rods (16.5 feet) that it crossed.
Most agreements will include a plat which should show the property and width of the right of way.

There are certain things the property owner can't do on the right of way, while other things are permitted. I would discuss this with the operator because each is different.

Keep in mind pipeline operators can change names or be sold so the recorded agreement may not reflect the current operators name.

On a 24 acre tract with a pipeline in the rear, the impacted value will be minimal.