A national, federally-mandated “Call Before You Dig” number, 811, was created to help protect you from unintentionally hitting underground utility lines while working on digging projects.

When digging, people can sometimes make risky assumptions about whether or not they should get their utility lines marked due to concerns about project delays, costs and previous calls about other projects. These assumptions can be life-threatening.

Whether you are planning to do it yourself or hire a professional, smart digging means calling 811 before each job. Every digging job requires a call – even small projects like planting trees or shrubs. The depth of utility lines varies and there may be multiple utility lines in a common area. Digging without calling can disrupt service to an entire neighborhood, harm you and those around you, and potentially result in fines and repair costs. Calling 811 before every digging job gets your underground utility lines marked for free and helps prevent undesired consequences.

Getting your lines marked is quick and easy with 811.

When you dial 811, your call is forwarded to the One Call Center in your area for processing. Local One Call Center operators record the location of the dig and then notify the impacted utility companies of your digging plans. Your utility companies then dispatch a professional locating crew to mark the approximate location of your lines within a few days.

Be sure to call 811 a few days in advance of your scheduled dig to allow time for the request to be processed. Once your lines are marked, you will know their approximate location and you can dig safely. Knowing what’s below will protect you, your family and your neighbors.