It’s completely free. It is simple. And it’s the law.
The FCC introduced the 811 number to prevent accidental damage to underground utility lines during excavation. There are over 100 billion feet of buried utilities in the US. Call 811 before digging to reduce damage to less than 1%. Cables and pipes can be found at shallow depths, so call regardless of how deep you dig. Contacting USA North 811 for a utility locate request is free. The utility members fund the center to provide a free service that prevents damage to underground utilities.
What to know:
- Before digging, call 811 two full business days ahead of time.
- Monday – Friday, 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Usanorth811.org is a website that allows you to request 811 services online.
- Tell the 811 operator where you’re going to dig and what you’ll be digging for.
- Utility businesses that are affected will be notified by 811.
- The utilities will send a locator to indicate the approximate location of your buried utility lines, pipes, and cables, or they will let you know if the buried lines are clear.
- To determine the proper location for the locator to designate, pre-mark your digging area in white paint.
- The locators will use the color-coded to the right to mark the approximate position of underground wires.
- DIG SAFELY!
In cases where you damage or come into contact with a buried utility line, call Underground Services. They can be reached at 811 or (800) 642-2444.
If you damage a utility line, contact the affected utility. Never attempt to regulate the flow or perform repairs. If a natural gas line is damaged, move to a safe location. Call 911 first and then call your gas company.
Website: call811.com for more information.
