Commission continues lay-flat line ordinance hearing; approves encroachment permit for Crescent Uinta

The Duchesne County Commission on April 13 continued a public hearing on Ordinance 26-430, which would allow temporary easements in county rights-of-way and permit the use of culverts for temporary crossings under roadways.

Deputy Attorney Grant Charles presented the ordinance and explained that it would formalize lay-flat line permits that had previously been handled via encroachment permits. Industry representatives sought clarifications about the ordinance language and the permit application: Zane Lay of FourPoint Resources asked whether the ordinance would require a bond per project or allow a blanket bond; Jake Woodland of WEM asked whether multiple lines would require separate permits; Scott Duncan of SM Energy urged consideration of engineered crossings that meet flow standards; and Rikki Hrenko-Browning of the Utah Petroleum Association asked for more time for industry review.

Commissioners discussed bonding language and the county's desire to preserve project-specific protections, particularly where paved roads would be sawcut. Commissioner Tracy Killian moved to continue the public hearing to May 11, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.; Commissioner Jeff Chugg seconded the motion and the continuation passed unanimously.

Separately during the regular session, Public Works Director Mike Casper presented encroachment permit R26-019 for Crescent Uinta, LLC. Commissioner Jeff Chugg moved to approve permit R26-019 and authorize the chair to sign; Commissioner Tracy Killian seconded the motion and the permit was approved by unanimous vote.

The commission did not adopt Ordinance 26-430 at this meeting; the hearing will resume on May 11 to allow additional stakeholder review and potential ordinance language adjustments.