Government of Nova Scotia gov.ns.ca
gov.ns.ca Government of Nova Scotia Nova Scotia, Canada
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Pipeline Regulations

In fall 2009, the province passed amendments to the Nova Scotia Pipeline Act to allow for amendments to the pipeline regulations.

These regulations will give the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (UARB) greater flexibility and powers to deal with permit applications and licenses, and should enhance public safety.

These proposed amendments are now ready in draft form:

The province welcomes your feedback on these amendments.

By February 28, 2010 at the latest, please send any comments or questions to:

Bill O'Halloran
Natural Gas Engineering Specialist
NS Department of Energy
E-mail: OHALLOWE@gov.ns.ca
Phone: 424-8184
Fax: 424-0528
5151 George Street
Bank of Montreal, Floor 4
Halifax, NS
B3J 3P7


Background summary:

The current Pipeline Act was introduced in 1989. The province is proposing amendments that will give the UARB greater flexibility and powers and enhance public safety.

The Pipeline Act covers the Heritage Gas pipelines and the onshore Sable natural gas liquids line that runs from Goldboro to the Strait area. It does not cover private gas lines in your homes and businesses - those are covered by the Fuel Safety Act. The Maritimes and Northeast pipeline is regulated by the National Energy Board.

The changes proposed in the draft regulations were recommended by independent consultants commissioned by the Department of Energy to review pipeline legislation and regulations. The proposed changes will bring Nova Scotia in line with other jurisdictions in Canada.

The proposed amendments:

  • give the UARB greater authority and range of powers around permit applications and monitoring and enforcing of orders around pipelines and pipeline safety, and
  • provide language to distinguish between transmission and distribution lines.

Benefit to Nova Scotians

The proposed changes will:

  • give the UARB greater flexibility in enforcing orders. Currently, the UARB's only 'stick' is to shut down a pipeline.
  • continue to ensure that pipelines must meet safety requirements of Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
  • allow for new safety technology to be introduced quickly without the need to change regulations.

For more information, please review the backgrounder.