Help Protect Underground Utilities

Building a deck? Planting a tree? Installing a mailbox? Don't assume you know what's below. A federally-mandated national "Call Before You Dig" number, 811, was created to help protect you from unintentionally hitting underground utility lines while working on digging projects.

Whether you are a homeowner or a professional excavator, 811 is the new number you should call well before you begin any digging project, as advanced notice is required in most states. Underground utilities may exist everywhere, perhaps even on your own property. If you hit an underground utility line while digging, you can harm yourself or those around you, disrupt service to an entire neighborhood and potentially be responsible for fines and repair costs.

When you call the 811 number, your call will be routed to your local One Call center in your area. Your Local One Call Center operator will ask you for the location of your digging job and route your call to affected utility companies. Your utility companies will then send a professional locator to your location to mark your lines within a few days. Once your underground lines have been marked, you will know the approximate location of your utility lines and can dig safely, because knowing what's below protects you and your family.

Whether you are upgrading sidewalks and driveways, adding sprinkler systems, removing oil tanks, installing fences or porches or similar renovations, remember to Call Before you Dig and dial 811. It's the law!

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