2025 Texas Statutes
Utilities Code
Title 4 - Delivery of Utility Services
Subtitle B - Provisions Regulating Delivery of Services
Chapter 186 - Provisions to Ensure the Reliability and Integrity of Utility Service
Subchapter E. Construction and Maintenance of Facilities Along, Over, Under, or Across Railroad Right-of-Way
Section 186.054. Construction and Maintenance of Utility, Common Carrier, Cable Operator, and Energy Transporter Facilities
Sec. 186.054. CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF UTILITY, COMMON CARRIER, CABLE OPERATOR, AND ENERGY TRANSPORTER FACILITIES. (a) A utility, common carrier, cable operator, or energy transporter may acquire an easement by eminent domain along, over, under, or across a railroad or railroad right-of-way as provided by this subchapter to maintain, operate, or upgrade its facilities consistent with preexisting licenses or agreements.
(b) A utility, common carrier, cable operator, or energy transporter:
(1) shall provide notice to the railroad within a reasonable period of any proposed activity relating to the construction, maintenance, or operation of the facilities; and
(2) may not unreasonably interfere with railroad operations.
(c) Absent terms to the contrary in an easement acquired by condemnation under this subchapter, existing license, or agreement, a railroad may require a utility, common carrier, cable operator, or energy transporter to relocate any portion of a facility that is located in the railroad right-of-way that is not in the public right-of-way if:
(1) a reasonable alternate route is available;
(2) a reasonable amount of time is provided;
(3) substantial interference with the railroad operations is established; and
(4) the railroad reimburses the utility, common carrier, cable operator, or energy transporter for the reasonable cost of relocation.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1087, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
