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Bill

Bill

HB 1279

Public Utility Notice to Real Property Owner

2026 Regular Session

Requires Colorado public utilities to notify property owners when utility infrastructure is located on or crosses their land, establishing disclosure procedures and owner awareness rights.

House Committee on Energy & Environment Postpone Indefinitely
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1279

Legislative bill overview

HB 1279 requires public utilities to provide written notice to real property owners when utility infrastructure (such as pipelines, transmission lines, or equipment) is located on or crosses their property. The bill establishes notification procedures and timing requirements for utilities to disclose this information to affected landowners.

Why is this important

Property owners have legitimate interests in knowing what utility infrastructure exists on their land, which affects land use decisions, property values, insurance considerations, and safety planning. Currently, utilities may not systematically inform landowners of this presence, leaving owners unaware of easements, maintenance activities, or potential risks associated with utility operations on their property.

Potential points of contention

  • Utility compliance costs: Utilities may argue that identifying and notifying all affected property owners is administratively burdensome and costly, potentially affecting rates or operational budgets
  • Notice timing and standards: Disagreement over what constitutes "reasonable notice," how utilities should identify current owners, and whether notice applies retroactively to existing infrastructure
  • Property rights vs. utility access: Tension between strengthening landowner information rights and protecting utilities' established easement and operational rights across private property

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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