The short version
- 811 connects you to the utilities that mark their buried lines
- Call before any digging, even a fence post
- Marks show approximate horizontal location, not depth
- Private lines are not marked by the utilities
What 811 is
811 is the national number to call before you dig. It connects you to your state’s one-call center, which notifies member utilities so they can send someone to mark their buried lines. The service is free to the caller.
You can also request locates online through your state’s 811 service.
When to call
Call before digging of any kind, including planting trees, building a fence or deck, installing a mailbox or a post, grading or trenching. Call even for shallow digging.
Plan ahead. The utilities need working days to respond, and the required notice period depends on your state, so confirm it when you call.
What happens next
The call center takes your location and the work description and passes it to utilities with lines in the area. Their locators arrive and mark the approximate path of their lines with paint or flags.
You should wait until the marks are in place and every utility has responded before you dig.
Digging near marks
Marks show approximate position, not depth. Many jurisdictions require careful hand digging or vacuum excavation within a set distance of marks. The area immediately around a marked line is dug by hand or with other non-damaging methods.
If you uncover a line or damage one, stop and call the utility owner, and call 911 for any gas smell or electrical danger.
General information, not engineering, legal or safety advice. Rules and requirements vary by utility, city and county.
