Homeowner's Responsibilities
Homeowners are always improving their property through many projects such as planting trees, installing decks, mail boxes or even digging for patios and sidewalks.
But often, they make risky choices not to have underground lines marked, but every digging job requires a call. The depth of multiple lines may vary on a project. Without calling you can disrupt services to an entire neighborhood, harm you and your family and possibly result in owing fines and repair costs.
Many utilities lines are just inches below the surface. Dialing 811 will quickly and easily begin the process of getting the approximate location of underground lines marked for free. Dial 811 at least two business days prior to your planned excavation and your call will be routed to the call center. The Customer Service Representative will ask you a series of question in regards to what you plan to do and what type of work. In a matter of minutes affected local utilities will be notified and they should have the approximate location of their facilities marked within 2 business days so you can dig safely.
Many utility companies often bury their underground lines along existing property lines - potentially in the same area you are considering for your project! You may need to contact the local utility to make sure that you do not plant too close to utility service pedestals and meters. This could cause a potential problem as the trees or shrubs grow and mature.
By always dialing 811 before you dig, you will ensure that your excavation project does not result in an unwelcome surprise to you, your family or neighbors!
Smart digging is no accident! DIAL 811
