Digging without knowing what’s underground is risky and expensive. One free call to 811 connects you to your state’s one-call center so utilities can mark buried lines before you start. Here’s the process, timelines, color codes, and a quick checklist.
STEP 1 — NOTIFY (2–3 BUSINESS DAYS AHEAD*)
Call 811 or submit an online ticket. Have ready:
• Name, phone, email
• Exact address + specific dig area (“backyard along north fence”)
• Type of work (fence posts, trenching, tree planting, etc.)
• Planned start date
*Some states require more notice—check yours.
STEP 2 — WAIT FOR UTILITY RESPONSES
Utilities usually have 2–3 working days. Each will either:
• Send a locator to mark its lines, or
• Say “no conflict” if nothing’s in your dig area.
Watch for emails/texts or check your ticket portal.
STEP 3 — CONFIRM ALL MARKS (OR CLEARS)
Make sure every listed utility has responded. Missing someone? Call 811 again. No marks ≠ no lines.
STEP 4 — RESPECT THE MARKS
Flags/paint are for your safety.
• Don’t move or mow them off.
• Protect them during work.
• If they fade or expire, request a remark.
COLOR CODE CHEAT SHEET
Red = Electric
Yellow = Gas/Oil
Orange = Communications
Blue = Water
Green = Sewer
Purple = Reclaimed water
White = Proposed dig area
STEP 5 — DIG CAREFULLY
States define a “tolerance zone” (often 18–24" each side of a mark). Inside it:
• Hand-dig or vacuum-excavate to expose the line.
• Don’t plunge power tools directly over a mark.
PRIVATE LINES 811 USUALLY DOESN’T MARK
• Sprinkler/irrigation systems
• Propane lines from tank to grill or pool heater
• Invisible pet fences
• Power to sheds, detached garages, landscape lighting
Hire a private locator if needed.
COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID
• Calling the day you dig (or not calling at all)
• Assuming “no marks = no lines”
• Using heavy machinery on top of paint/flags
• Letting the ticket expire without renewing
FAQS
Is 811 free? Yes.
Do small projects count? Yes—lines can be shallow. Always call.
How close can I dig? Stay out of the tolerance zone with power tools; expose lines by hand first.
Will I be notified when marks are done? Depends on your state—check your ticket.
New area = new ticket? Usually yes.
QUICK-GRAB CHECKLIST
☐ Called 811 / submitted ticket (date: ____ )
☐ Ticket number recorded (#: ____ )
☐ All utilities responded / marked or cleared
☐ Private lines checked / private locator booked
☐ Marks protected / tolerance zones identified
☐ Hand-dig plan near marks
☐ Ticket expiration date (date: ____ ) noted
