MN HF1073

Pipeline owners must provide written notice to landowners at least 60 days before ceasing operations, and landowners can request removal of abandoned pipelines, pumping stations, and ancillary equipment through a notarized written request

Pipeline owners bear full financial responsibility for removal, environmental cleanup, remediation costs, and land restoration including restoring land contours, replacing topsoil, establishing vegetative cover, and controlling invasive species for five consecutive years

Landowners may choose to keep an abandoned pipeline in place by submitting a written request, assuming future liabilities except for ongoing monitoring and inspection costs which remain the pipeline owner's responsibility

Pipeline abandonment in Minnesota requires approval of an abandonment plan by the Commissioner of Public Safety, including mandatory consultation with landowners, Tribal governments, government agencies, environmental organizations, and at least one public hearing

Abandonment plans must include detailed information on pipeline history, maps, facilities to be removed or left in place, land reclamation activities, environmental risk assessments, post-abandonment monitoring schedules, and proof of adequate financial assurance funds