What Is 811?
811 is the national Call Before You Dig service. Before any digging—big or small—you should contact 811 by dialing 811 or submitting a request through your state’s 811 website. Utility companies will then mark the approximate locations of underground lines with paint or flags so you can dig safely.
Calling 811 helps prevent serious injuries, service outages, and costly repairs. Underground utilities like gas, electric, water, and communication lines are often buried just inches below the surface, and hitting one can be dangerous or even deadly.
No matter the project—planting a tree, installing a fence or mailbox, or grinding a stump—you are required to contact 811 before digging. Once you make a request, utilities have a few business days to respond and mark their lines. Always wait for all utilities to mark and confirm they’ve responded before starting work, and dig carefully around the marked areas.
Calling 811 is free, easy, and protects you, your property, and your community.
