Utilities and Drainage Installations

Crossing vs. Encroachment

A crossing is a pipeline or wireline that enters the railroad company's trackage from one side of the right of way to the other side of the right of way in as near a straight line as possible. These installations should follow Procedures for Pipeline Crossings or Procedures for Wireline Crossings. Or, you may use our new online application process.

An encroachment is a pipeline or wireline that enters the railroad company's right of way and either does not leave the right of way or follows along the right of way for some distance. These installations should follow Procedures for Encroachments.

This online application process will allow you to complete an application for a wireline or a pipeline crossing, encroachment, a modification or maintenance request. This will save you time and money - avoiding the delays, expense and uncertainty of mailing applications to us. All applications mentioned above must be submitted online.

If an installation entails both an encroachment and a crossing, procedures for both must be followed in the application process. The application must be submitted through the encroachment and crossing option and the application can not be rushed.

If the installation method for this utility is to involve the use of a directional drilling method, specific guidelines established by the Railroad must be met. Union Pacific Railroad follows AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering Chapter 1 - PART 5 Pipelines. To purchase a copy of these AREMA guidelines send an Application to AREMA.

Rush Handling

  • Only crossing applications can be "Rushed."
  • Pipeline crossings over 40 inches cannot be "Rushed."
  • Deviations from standard engineering specifications cannot be "Rushed."
  • Encroachment applications cannot be "Rushed."

UPRR Rush Handling fees:

  • TIER I: $10,055.00 - Turnaround in 5 UPRR Business Days
  • TIER II: $5,055.00 - Turnaround in 15 UPRR Business Days