Big-scale Project, Big Questions
The DeLa Express Pipeline is set to be one of the more ambitious natural gas pipelines in Texas in the coming years. Planned by Moss Lake Partners, this 42-inch, ~690-mile pipeline will transport up to 2 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas from the Delaware Basin (part of the Permian in West Texas) all the way to the Gulf of Mexico, terminating near Lake Charles, Louisiana. Construction is expected to begin in mid-2026, with operations projected around 2028.
For landowners along the proposed route, this pipeline presents significant risks. Offers to grant easements may come, but so might the possibility of eminent domain if agreements can’t be reached. Knowing your rights now may make a notable difference for you later.
Understanding Eminent Domain in Texas
Eminent domain gives certain entities (including private infrastructure companies in some cases) the legal power to force the acquisition of private property when the project is considered to serve a public interest. In Texas, laws require adherence to specific procedures, offer of “just compensation,” and typically a chance for landowners to negotiate – but if an agreement fails, condemnation proceedings may be used.
Here’s how the process commonly works:
- Initial contact/offer – A right-of-way representative approaches you with an easement offer.
- Negotiation – You can negotiate more than price: location, access, restoration, future use, timing, etc.
- Written Final Offer – If negotiations stall, a final written offer is typically made.
- Condemnation / Legal Action – The developer may file for condemnation to force the easement.
- Special Commissioners’ Hearing – A panel reviews evidence (from both the landowner and the company) and determines compensation.
- Appeals – Landowners can challenge the valuation or other parts of the process in court.
“Just compensation” must reflect fair market value, but also often includes damages to the rest of your property (not just the part taken), impacts from construction, long-term use restrictions, and more.
What’s at Stake Along the DeLa Express Route
Even though the pipeline will follow many existing corridors (to minimize disruption), additional private land easements will very likely be required. Some specifics landowners should watch out for:
- Permanent easement – Once granted, the company will hold certain rights indefinitely.
- Access and ingress/egress – The developer may need regular access for maintenance, inspection, or expansions.
- Restrictions on land use above or near the line – Farming, building, livestock, or other operations could be limited.
- Restoration obligations and construction damage – Soil compaction, disturbance to landscape, fencing, water drainage, etc.
- Long-term impact on resale or development – Easement burdens, visibility of pipelines, and future regulatory constraints.
Your Rights & How to Protect Them
If you are, or believe you may be, in the path of the DeLa Express Pipeline:
- Don’t accept the first offer immediately. Offers are often starting points, not full value.
- Negotiate easement terms carefully. Clarify where the line will go, how access is managed, and what happens to the land afterward.
- Document your property now. Photos, surveys, property maps, and current usage – all can help.
- Get legal help early. An attorney with experience in eminent domain and property law can help you understand possible outcomes, negotiate well, or challenge unfair offers.
- Watch for non-monetary issues. Easement language, future use rights, restoration after construction, restrictions, and damage liability.
Why Gattis Law & Dan Gattis Are the Right Advocates
Dan Gattis isn’t just a lawyer; he’s a landowner and rancher himself and was a Texas state representative who dealt with legislation affecting rural landowners. He knows Texas property not just from deeds and statutes, but from lived experience.
With Gattis Law, you get:
- Clear explanation of your rights in lay terms, but with firm legal grounding.
- Strong negotiation to push back against low offers or unfair easement terms.
- Willingness to litigate / contest valuation where necessary.
- A client-focused, landowner-first approach: protecting not just what you are paid, but what remains of your land, your livelihood, and your legacy.
Visit our DeLa Express Pipeline page for more information on the pipeline, a detailed map and FAQs. If you’ve been approached already — or anticipate being — reach out for a free consultation to protect your rights and your land.
