The Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) requires gas and pipeline operators to establish and maintain a Damage Prevention Program designed to reduce the risk of underground utility damage caused by excavation activities. These requirements are outlined in 20 CSR 4240-40, specifically under Section (12)(I)(3)(A), (12)(I)(3)(A)(I), and (12)(I)(3)(B), which collectively define the minimum elements of a compliant program.
While the PSC mandates what must be achieved, it allows gas and pipeline operators flexibility to determine how they will comply. One of the key requirements under Section (12)(I)(3)(B) is that operators must provide at least annual notification to excavators, including applicable sections of Chapter 319, RSMo, which governs underground facility safety and damage prevention.
How Missouri 811 Helps You Meet This Requirement
Missouri 811 supports its gas and pipeline members by helping satisfy this excavator notification requirement through its annual Spring Excavator Newsletter. This newsletter is distributed statewide to excavators via electronic mail and includes applicable Chapter 319, RSMo information, helping operators demonstrate compliance with PSC damage prevention expectations. The Spring Newsletter is also publicly available on the Missouri 811 website.
To take advantage of this support, gas and pipeline operators must comply with Section (12)(I)(3)(A), which requires maintaining a current listing of excavators in their service area. Missouri 811 provides an easy to use online portal to assist with this process.
Important Dates to Know
The Missouri 811 Gas and Pipeline Member Portal will be open January 15, through March 15, 2026, allowing operators to review and submit required updates. Timely participation ensures your company’s excavator information is current and allows Missouri 811 to include your system in its statewide excavator education and notification efforts.
Gas and pipeline members can access the portal and additional information at https://missouri-811.org/members/gas-members/.
A Shared Commitment to Damage Prevention
Damage prevention is a shared responsibility. By partnering with Missouri 811, gas and pipeline operators can efficiently meet PSC requirements, support statewide excavator education, and help protect underground infrastructure, public safety, and their own facilities.
If you have questions about the Gas and Pipeline Member Portal or Missouri 811’s excavator education programs, please contact Missouri 811 for assistance.
References:
Gas and Pipeline Operators portal: https://missouri-811.org/members/gas-members/
PSC 20 CSR 4240- 40: https://share.google/FX3OkXpUe4IprLEsj
Excavator Newsletters: https://missouri-811.org/excavators/excavator-newsletter/