New York Public Service Commission Imposes $2,500 Fine on T G Landscape Contractor for Failure to Use One-Call Notification System

Strategic Insights -

The New York Public Service Commission has issued an order determining a penalty of $2,500 against T G Landscape Contractor for violating 16 NYCRR Part 753, which requires excavation companies to notify the one-call system before digging. The incident occurred on November 16, 2024, when T G Landscape Contractor damaged a high-pressure gas pipeline without notifying the one-call system. As a result, Staff issued a Notice of Probable Violation (NOPV) to the company, which was not contested by T G Landscape Contractor. The Commission determined that the company's failure to comply with the regulations posed a significant risk to public safety and ordered them to pay $2,500 as a civil penalty.

Key Takeaways:

  • The New York Public Service Commission imposed a $2,500 fine on T G Landscape Contractor for failing to use the one-call notification system before digging.
  • The incident occurred on November 16, 2024, when T G Landscape Contractor damaged a high-pressure gas pipeline.
  • Staff estimated that 29,880 cubic feet of gas was lost due to avoidable pipeline damage.
  • T G Landscape Contractor has no history of adjudicated prior violations within the preceding 12-month period.
  • The Commission strongly encourages Respondent to contact New York 811, Inc. (516-491-9444) to request a training session covering the use of the one-call notification system and Part 753 requirements.
  • The $2,500 penalty will be deposited into the underground facilities safety training account.
  • If the check is not received within 30 days, the case will be referred to the New York State Department of Law for collection.

Statistics:

  • The penalty assessed against T G Landscape Contractor is $2,500.
  • The statutory maximum civil penalty allowable for a first offense is $2,500.
  • T G Landscape Contractor failed to notify the one-call system, resulting in damage to a gas pipeline and the release of 29,880 cubic feet of gas.
  • The Commission determined that the gravity of the violation is substantial and the penalty is necessary to deter similar conduct in the future.

Sources:

  • Order Determining Penalty and Directing Payment (New York Public Service Commission, May 22, 2025)