Construction Guidelines for Gas Service

Please refer to state tariffs and local or state inspectors for specific requirements in your area.

Charges for Natural Gas Service

Apply for service well in advance of the date service will be required. We strongly recommend that early in the construction process you either complete a Construction Request online, call your local Black Hills Energy representative or call Black Hills Energy Customer Service at 1-888-890-5554 to complete a Construction Request.

An Black Hills Energy representative will prepare a cost estimate using your application. If the construction site is not near natural gas distribution lines, the estimate will include the cost to extend distribution lines to your site. An Black Hills Energy representative may need to meet with you on-site to gather additional information about your requirements. Once the estimate is complete, Black Hills Energy will notify you about any costs you may be required to pay per applicable state tariffs.

If you are required to pay any construction costs, a signed construction agreement and full payment will be required before Black Hills Energy can proceed with the project. You may also be required to furnish right-of-way easements necessary to install the natural gas distribution line extension and service.

Be sure to ask your local Black Hills Energy representative about the possibility of rebates or other programs when you apply. For example, new construction rebates are available in Iowa. Call Black Hills Energy Customer Service at 1-888-890-5554 for contact information in your area.

Inspection and Permits

All natural gas piping systems must be pressure tested prior to use. The contractor or property owner is responsible for arranging the pressure test in accordance with applicable national, state and local codes for installation of natural gas systems.

You may be required to obtain a permit and/or have your appliances and piping inspected before Black Hills Energy can set a meter and turn on natural gas. Please refer to local regulations for your specific area.

Natural Gas Metering Standards

Meters are normally placed outside and must be readily accessible and protected from corrosion. Other requirements, such as location on the property, distance from windows and ignition sources, etc., are determined by local, state or national code and strictly enforced. Contact your local inspector or Black Hills Energy at 1-888-890-5554 for details.

Customer Piping, Venting, Combustion, and Other Considerations

All materials must be installed in accordance with federal, state and local codes.

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