The criteria for considering permit application for power and communication lines are as follows:

1. (1) Electric power and communication lines attached to a highway bridge or structure must be insulated from the structure and must be carried in protective conduit or pipe throughout the bridge and to underground locations at each end of the structure. Exposed metallic conduit carrying electrical cables must be grounded separately from the structure;
2. (2) High voltage transmission lines which cannot be placed in protective conduit or pipe must be located outside of the superstructure either on poles supported from the bridge piers or on framework attached to trusses; and

3. (3) Attachments for electric power and communication lines must provide sufficient clearance for convenience and safety during maintenance and repair of bridge structure or other utility installations on the bridge.

   Metallic conduit attached to structures that are cathodically protected must meet all of the requirements in this section and may not adversely affect the cathodic protection of the structure. Such an attachment must insulate the conduit from the soil and use anodes at each end for grounding. The specific method proposed to be used must be specified in the permit application and is subject to approval by the region engineer.

Source: 20 SDR 159, effective April 3, 1994.

General Authority: SDCL 31-26-22.

Law Implemented: SDCL 31-26-22.