49 C.F.R. § 213.103 Ballast; general.
Title 49 - Transportation
Unless it is otherwise structurally supported, all track shall be supported by material which will— (a) Transmit and distribute the load of the track and railroad rolling equipment to the subgrade; (b) Restrain the track laterally, longitudinally, and vertically under dynamic loads imposed by railroad rolling equipment and thermal stress exerted by the rails; (c) Provide adequate drainage for the track; and (d) Maintain proper track crosslevel, surface, and alinement.
Title 49: Transportation
PART 213—TRACK SAFETY STANDARDS
Subpart D—Track Structure
§ 213.103 Ballast; general.