On May 19, 2026, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued a new Statement of Policy on transporting hazardous liquids and carbon dioxide in non-steel pipelines, marking an important development for pipeline operators, manufacturers, and project developers navigating evolving infrastructure needs.
The policy reinforces that operators do not need a special permit to transport hazardous liquids or supercritical CO₂ in non-steel pipelines under 49 CFR Part 195. Instead, operators may proceed through the existing 90-day notice process in 49 CFR § 195.8, provided PHMSA does not object.
Just as significant, PHMSA signaled increased comfort with modern non-steel materials when supported by recognized industry standards, documented testing, compatibility analysis, and integrity management practices. The policy references standards from API, ASTM, DNV, and others for reinforced plastic, fiberglass, HDPE, and composite pipeline systems.
PHMSA also outlined the types of information it would find useful in evaluating a notice submission, including:
- Applicable industry codes and standards
- Product descriptions and characteristics
- Chemical compatibility and material performance data
- Long-term testing and operational validation information
- Written procedures for design, construction, operation, and maintenance
- Integrity management plans for protecting high consequence areas
For industry, this creates additional flexibility in addressing corrosion concerns, operational environments, and emerging infrastructure applications. For counsel and compliance professionals, it also highlights the importance of developing robust technical records and operational documentation to support regulatory submissions.
This policy is another example of how federal pipeline regulation continues to evolve alongside advances in pipeline materials and technology. For more information, please contact Ahuva Battams.