Whether you are planning to do it yourself or hire a professional, smart digging means calling 811 before each job. Homeowners often make risky assumptions about whether they should get their utility lines marked, but every digging job requires a call – even small projects like planting trees and shrubs.

For more information on your local One Call Center, or to make an online request for utilities to be marked (where available), click here.

Why should I call 811 before every dig?

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. Professional locators will mark the approximate location of the buried facilities with paint or flags.

Can I submit my request to have my utility lines marked online at this web site?

No. Please call 811 directly. Your local One Call Center will advise you of online services available to submit locate requests. For additional local information, click here.

I’m just a homeowner, not a contractor—is 811 for me?

Smart digging always means calling 811 before each job. Whether you’re a do-it-yourselfer planning a weekend project, or a professional excavator contracted for a home improvement job, one phone call to 811 will get your underground utility lines marked for free.

Can I call in a request for a utility locate on weekends?

Laws vary from state to state. Please call 811 and a customer service representative will be able to assist you.

How far in advance do I need to call?

State laws vary from 48 – 72 hours, most excluding weekends and legal holidays. Please call 811 directly, and the customer service representative will be able to provide specific information.

Do the colors of the paint and flags indicate anything in particular?

Yes. Each color indicates a universal color to what is buried below ground.

• Red – Electric
• Orange – Communications, Telephone/CATV
• Blue – Potable Water
• Green – Sewer/Drainage
• Yellow – Gas/Petroleum Pipeline
• Purple – Reclaimed Water
• White – Premark site of intended excavation