Primary & Secondary Service

Understanding The Difference

When it comes to natural gas infrastructure, it’s important to understand how service lines are structured, and what’s managed by Yellowhead Gas versus what’s your responsibility as a property owner.

Natural gas service is typically split into two parts:

Primary Gas Lines

Primary lines refer to the main service line installed and maintained by Yellowhead Gas Co-op. If you are applying for a new gas service, for example, a new home or building, we will connect into our existing infrastructure and bring a primary gas line directly to your meter.

  • Primary lines are owned and installed by Yellowhead Gas Co-op
  • Only Yellowhead Gas Co-op can perform work on primary lines
  • Members cannot install or modify primary gas lines themselves
  • A Primary Service Application Form is required to begin the process

Secondary Gas Lines

Secondary gas lines begin after the meter and are considered the member’s responsibility. These lines serve additional buildings on the same property, such as shops, barns, or garages.

Members have the option to:

  • Have Yellowhead Gas Co-op build the line and trench and install the line themselves (or hire a contractor)

If you choose to install a secondary line:

  • A Secondary Gas Line Request Form is required
  • You must submit a copy of the Homeowner’s Gas Permit and the installation must be inspected by a certified authority. This permit is required to ensure a complete inspection.
Secondary Gas Line Request Form

Even homeowners without a technical background may install secondary lines, provided the proper permits and safety inspections are in place.

Important: Secondary gas lines cannot cross legal property boundaries. For example, if a secondary line runs to another dwelling (such as a family member’s home on your land) and that property is later subdivided, a new primary service would be required for the now legally separate parcel.

Planning A New Connection or Expansion?

If you’re planning a new build, adding a detached structure, or expanding your property’s natural gas usage, your existing system may need to be extended or modified. Yellowhead Gas Co-op can help you navigate the process safely and efficiently.

Some common scenarios that require service planning include:

  • Building a garage, shop, barn, or secondary dwelling
  • Installing a gas stove, furnace, water heater, or space heater in an outbuilding
  • Renovating or expanding existing buildings that affect current gas line routing
  • Relocating a meter for accessibility or design reasons
  • Replacing old or damaged secondary lines

Here’s How We Support You

Initial Review

We’ll assess your property’s current setup and determine if your existing primary or secondary service can support the expansion, or if upgrades are needed.

Site Guidance

Our team can offer advice on meter placement, trench routing, clearance requirements and contractor expectations.

Starting early gives you more flexibility, helps avoid costly changes mid-project, and ensures your timeline stays on track.

Contact Us

Start Your Project with Confidence

Whether you’re building, expanding, or simply updating your natural gas setup, we’re here to help you get it right from the beginning. Yellowhead Gas Co-op will guide you through every step from primary connection to final inspection.

Let’s make sure your gas service is built to last!

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