Pipelines in Augusta Township
Augusta Township is crossed by three major pipeline systems:
These pipelines transport important energy resources across the region and are located within designated corridors known as pipeline rights-of-way.
A pipeline right-of-way is a strip of land that allows pipeline companies to safely operate, inspect, and maintain underground pipelines. Certain activities within or near these areas may require permission before work begins.
Stay Safe Before You Dig
Whether you are planning a home project, agricultural work, landscaping, fencing, or construction, it is important to contact Ontario One Call before disturbing the ground.
You Must Obtain Approval Before
- Mechanically excavating within 30 metres (98.5 feet) of a pipeline right-of-way
- Constructing or installing structures within the right-of-way
- Performing work that could impact pipeline safety or access
Activities That May Require Permission
Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Operating vehicles or heavy equipment where no roadway exists
- Excavation or trenching
- Reducing soil depth over a pipeline
- Agricultural plowing or tilling deeper than 30 cm (1 foot)
- Ground leveling or grading
- Installing drainage systems
- Augering or drilling
- Installing fences, posts, sheds, pools, or decks
- Tree planting or stump removal
Why Calling Before You Dig Matters
Underground infrastructure may not always be visible.
Contacting Ontario One Call helps prevent:
- Damage to underground utilities and pipelines
- Service disruptions
- Injury or safety hazards
- Costly repairs and delays
Important Reminders
- Unauthorized excavation or construction near a pipeline is prohibited by law.
- Pipeline companies must respond to locate requests within three business days.
- Pipeline companies must provide a decision on crossing or activity requests within 10 business days.
- Pipeline markers indicate the general location of a pipeline only and should not be used to determine the exact location.
Pipeline Safety Tips
Know the Signs of a Pipeline Leak
Contact the pipeline company or emergency services immediately if you notice:
- A strong odour such as gasoline or rotten eggs
- Dead or discoloured vegetation
- Hissing, roaring, or blowing sounds
- Pooling liquid or an oily sheen on the ground
- Dirt blowing into the air or bubbling water
In an Emergency
- Leave the area immediately
- Move upwind if possible
- Avoid flames, sparks, or operating equipment
- Call 9-1-1 and notify the pipeline company
Ontario One Call
Ontario One Call is a free service that helps locate underground infrastructure before digging.
Contact Information
Phone: 1-800-400-2255
Residents and contractors can also submit locate requests online through:
Please contact Ontario One Call at least five business days before starting your project whenever possible.
Helpful Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to call before planting a tree? Yes. Tree roots can interfere with underground infrastructure and may require approval depending on the location.
- Are utility locates free? Yes. Ontario One Call provides free underground utility locate services.
- Can I build a shed or fence near a pipeline? Possibly. Certain structures may require permission from the pipeline company before installation.
- How do I know where a pipeline is located? Pipeline marker signs indicate the general area only. Always request official locates before digging.
