Inspection Officer Order issued to Chilliwack landowner

We issued an Inspection Officer Order to a Chilliwack, B.C., landowner after work took place in a pipeline right-of-way without a locate request or authorization from Trans Mountain.

Nearly 400 holes were dug above two federally regulated pipelines, including some that were 15 cm above the pipelines. While no damage was identified, the activity could have resulted in a serious incident.

Our Inspection Officers confirmed that:

• Nearly 400 holes were dug using mechanical equipment
• Vehicles and other mechanical equipment crossed the pipelines
• Locate requests were not made
• Authorization was not obtained from Trans Mountain before the work took place
• Employees were not informed of the legal requirements under the Canadian Energy Regulator Pipeline Damage Prevention Regulations – Authorizations

The Order requires a safety procedure and implementation plan for staff and contractors who conduct work near federally regulated pipelines.

Damage Prevention Regulations are in place to keep people and the environment safe while protecting critical infrastructure that we all rely on. Before digging, always remember to request a locate by visiting www.clickbeforeyoudig.ca.

Date modified:

2026-07-20