SB1812 Summary

• Authorizes any person or entity lawfully operating in Oklahoma to use public roads, highways, and rights-of-way for erecting poles, posts, equipment, wires, pipes, and conduits after obtaining consent from the Department of Transportation (for state highways) or county commissioners (for county roads).

• Requires all poles, posts, fixtures, equipment, wires, pipes, and conduits to be erected and maintained so as not to inconvenience abutting landowners or hinder public use, and must comply with the National Electrical Safety Code.

• Permits temporary use of rights-of-way (lasting 6 months or less) without requiring landowner consent when the use serves public safety by reducing burden on the road or highway and does not limit landowner access.

• Requires any person or entity using these rights-of-way to completely repair, replace, or provide compensation for any damage caused to abutting landowner property or public infrastructure.

• Failure to comply with Department of Transportation or county commissioner rules regarding placement and maintenance of structures results in forfeiture of the right to use public roads and highways.

• Effective date: November 1, 2014.