FAQs

What is the Sabal Trail Transmission pipeline project?

The Sabal Trail Transmission pipeline is a 600-mile interstate natural gas pipeline that originates in Alabama, traverses Georgia and then runs south into Florida down the center of the State and terminates in S. Florida in Martin County.

Who are the Sabal Trail Transmission and Florida Southeast Connection companies?

Sabal Trail Transmission and the Florida Southeast Connection are the companies under which Spectra, Florida Power & Light, and Nextera are pursuing the acquisition of the right of way and construction of the project.

What can I expect when dealing with representatives of the Sabal Trail Transmission and Florida Southeast Connection?

Some owners along the study corridor for the have already been contacted by representatives of Sabal Trail or the Florida Southeast Connection regarding survey permissions and the overall need by the gas company to communicate with the owner.

What should I do when communicating with, or receiving communications from, representatives working for Sabal Trail or the Florida Southeast Connection?

The most important part of communicating with representatives of the gas company is to take a “listening” posture and gather as much information as possible about the project, the anticipated purpose of any taking from your property, and to receive whatever written documentation is presented or given. It is best not to discuss your property values or any history of the property with the gas company representatives until such time as you have consulted with your attorney.

What preparations should I make in anticipation of the Sabal Trail Transmission pipeline?

At this time, there are no special preparations need to be made in anticipation of the pipeline project. The final route has not been reviewed or approved the by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). At such time as the route becomes final, your attorney can advise you of what special preparations or considerations need to be made, if any.

What is the typical width of the easement that the gas company will be taking from my property?

The type of property interest that will be taken from an owner will depend upon the type of improvement that will be constructed on your property. For example, for the pipeline, the gas company will take a permanent easement (PE) that typically has a width of 50-feet.

During construction, however, the gas company will also take a temporary construction easement (TCE) from the property for purposes of placing equipment and soil adjacent to the permanent easement for digging trenches and constructing the pipeline.The duration or length of time for the TCE is typically two (2) years.

The most significant type of taking relates to the above ground improvements such as valve stations, blow-off valves, launcher devices, and compressor stations, which all require the taking of property for the purposes of maintaining the above ground improvements.

How deep will the pipeline be buried if it is constructed on my property?

The typical depth of cover for the pipeline is 36-inches; however, dependent upon the use of the property and other technical considerations, a depth beyond the typical may be required.

How close can the pipeline be located to my home or business?

It depends. The pipeline company will be required to minimize impacts to residences and businesses; however, your attorney and any experts that are hired to defend you in the matter can best analyze and advise you regarding the proximity of the pipeline to any improvements, homes, businesses and operations on your property.

What rights do I have as a landowner?

Landowners confronted with acquisitions or condemnation have the right to representation by an attorney, as well as experts to advise, evaluate and advocate on behalf of the owners. In Florida, the fees for having a lawyer and experts are paid for by the condemning authority (gas company in this particular situation).

How much can I expect to be paid for my land if it is acquired or condemned by the gas company?

An owner of property is guaranteed the right to be paid “full” compensation under the Constitution. Full compensation includes the value of the land taken, any damages that may result from the taking, and the fees associated with defending the owner in the acquisition or condemnation.