Utility and communications providers would have to secure roadside equipment

Permit holders and maintenance providers would have to secure overhead cables, remove abandoned cables, and guard loose conduit or damaged underground access structures. The rules cover people responsible for equipment in public road and sidewalk areas, including their contractors. They would have to place barriers around loose conduit or damaged access structures when they discover them or receive notice. If passed as written, these rules would start July 1, 2026. Permit holders and maintenance providers would have 14 days after notice to place loose conduit in proper facilities or repair or replace damaged underground access structures.

Installed facilities and workers' equipment left in public road and sidewalk areas would have to show who is responsible for them. The rules cover installed facilities and equipment that workers leave there during or after work. Installed facilities would need contact details where practical. Equipment left by a contractor or other agent would need the name and contact details of both the agent and the permit holder they work for.

A county or city that owns a public road or sidewalk area could fine the party responsible for a covered violation. Violations include breaking the upkeep rules or leaving damaged, abandoned, loose, or improperly secured equipment. The county or city would choose the fine, up to $500 per violation for each day it remains unfixed after a required local compliance date. The total fine for one unfixed violation could not exceed $2,500. Daily fines would apply while a violation remains unfixed after any compliance date the county or city requires.