Delaware Code Title 26. Public Utilities § 810. Penalties

(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this section, whoever, by action or inaction, violates a provision of this chapter shall, for the first offense, be fined not less than $100 nor more than $500.  For each subsequent like offense, such person shall be fined not less than $200 nor more than $1,000 for each violation.

(2) Operators of underground pipeline facilities, excavators, and the approved notification center shall, upon violation of any applicable requirements of 49 C.F.R. part 198, Subpart C [49 C.F.R. § 198.31 et seq.], be subject to civil penalties not to exceed $10,000 for each violation for each day that the violation persists, except that the maximum civil penalty shall not exceed $500,000 for any related series of violations.  In determining the amount of the fine, the court shall consider the nature, circumstances and gravity of the violation and, with respect to the person found to have committed the violation, the degree of culpability, any history of prior violations, the effect on ability to continue to do business, any good faith in attempting to achieve compliance, ability to pay the fine and such other matters as justice may require.

(3) The Attorney General and the Public Service Commission shall review each notification of failure to perform an act required by this chapter or damage to facilities to determine any violations by operators, excavators or the notification center.  Pursuant to that review, the Attorney General or the Public Service Commission may impose penalties appropriate to the circumstances and gravity of the violation according to the guidelines in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this section above.

(4) Any civil penalty imposed pursuant to this subchapter shall not prevent any party from obtaining civil damages for personal injury or property damage in private actions.