2025 OUNC Rulemaking Updates
Following a public rulemaking hearing on April 15 (public notice, video recording), our members voted at our April 17 Oregon Utility Notification Center quarterly board meeting to proceed with implementation of just three of seven proposed rule changes from the Oregon Secretary of State filing. The Board voted to send the other four proposed changes back to the Governance Committee to be amended or tabled. This related issue summary [LINK to attached PDF] from the meeting provides a recap of testimony received.
The following changes are being made to Oregon Administrative Rules:
- Proceed with implementation of OAR 952-001-0005 as amended – identifying board recruitment partners
- Proceed with implementation of OAR 952-001-0010 (13) as presented – definition of “non-invasive methods” to include hand digging, air cutting, vacuum excavation and hydro vacuum excavation
- Proceed with implementation of OAR 952-001-0050 (2) as presented – working within a facility enclosure exempted if not digging beneath the base of the structure
The Board referred the following back to Governance Committee for amendment or tabling:
- OAR 952-001-0010 (10) – “large area” definition
- OAR 952-001-0010 (23) – ticket life definition (45/30 days)
- OAR 952-001-0040 – electronic white lining
- OAR 952-001-0080 – design locate requests
These will be on the agenda for the next Governance Committee meeting on Thursday, May 29 at 1 p.m. At that meeting, members will also address new rule changes relating to the Oregon Public Utility Commission ruling on complaint NC-405 regarding sewer laterals. The ruling calls for a better definition of the terms “operator” and “control” within Oregon Administrative Rules. Any proposals sent back to the full board will be placed on the agenda for the July 17 quarterly OUNC Board Meeting. A new printed and online version of the Standards Manual will be introduced once these items are addressed.
The Oregon Utility Notification Center welcomes public input and involvement, and with the rare and limited exception of executive session, all board and committee meetings are open to attend virtually or in person. If you have questions or need additional information, contact OUNC Executive Director Josh Thomas at [email protected].
General Information on OUNC Rulemaking
- Oregon Revised Statues are like a detailed instruction manual that explains/puts into action laws in the Oregon Revised Statutes.
- OUNC’S Oregon Administrative Rules are found in Chapter 952 (see Standards Manual). OUNC adopts rules that regulate the notification and marking of underground facilities to prevent damage to underground facilities. These rules have the effect of law.
- The Oregon Utility Notification Center (OUNC) Board of Directors welcomes ideas and suggestions that prevent damage, ensure safety, and improve OUNC’s contact center and programs. To submit a concept for consideration by the OUNC Board or its committees, please fill out this form.
For general inquiries, please email us at [email protected].
