Underground utilities, like electric lines but also include natural gas or water, can turn a simple project into a disaster if you don’t plan ahead.
Before any project that will include digging, call 811, and underground utility lines will be located and marked so you’ll know what’s below on your property and there is no locating charge to you.
Never assume the location or depth of underground utility lines. There’s no need: the 811 service is free, prevents the inconvenience of having utilities interrupted, and can help you avoid serious injury. For more information about local services.
Visit Texas 811 websiteMany home-improvement projects require calling 811, such as:
- Excavating for a driveway
- Installing a sprinkler system
- Digging holes for fence posts or a mailbox
- Anchoring supports for decks and swings
- Installing a retainer wall
- Contouring and landscaping
- Planting trees
- Removing tree roots
- Driving landscaping stakes
5 Steps for Safe Digging
- Notify: Call 8-1-1 or make a request online two to three days before your work begins. The operator will notify the utilities affected by your project.
- Wait: Wait two to three days for affected utilities to respond to your request. They will send a locator to mark any underground utility lines.
- Confirm: Confirm that all affected utilities have responded to your request by comparing the marks to the list of utilities the 8-1-1 call center notified.
- Respect: Respect the markers provided by the affected utilities. The markers are your guide for the duration of the project.
- Dig Carefully: If you can’t avoid digging near the markers (within 18-24 inches on all sides, depending on state laws), consider moving your project location.