It’s completely free. It is simple. And it’s the law.
811 or (800) 642-2444 are the official nationwide phone numbers to call prior to digging and to locate underground utility lines, including gas pipelines and electric lines. This free service, required by law, can help prevent damage and possible injury.
It is essential not to make risky assumptions. Even projects you may think are small, such as planting a garden or installing a mailbox or a fence, require you to contact 811 to have utility lines marked before starting your digging project.
Digging into a pipe is the most common cause of a gas pipeline rupture, which can have serious consequences. The homeowner or contractor who causes the damage is responsible for all repair costs, which average more than $1,500.
If you want to learn more about 811, you can visit nvenergy.com/call811 or call811.com.
The FCC introduced the 811 number to prevent accidental damage to underground utility lines. There are over 100 billion feet of buried utilities in the U.S. Calling 811 before digging can reduce damage to less than 1%. Cables and pipes can be found at shallow depths, so call regardless of how deep you dig. Contacting USA North 811 for a utility locate request is free. The utility members fund the center to provide a free service that prevents damage to underground utilities.
What to know:
- Before digging, call 811 two full business days ahead of time. They are open Monday – Friday, 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Usanorth811.org is another useful website that allows you to request 811 services online.
- Tell the 811 operator where you’re going to dig and what you’ll be digging for.
- Utility businesses that are affected will be notified by 811.
- The utilities will send a locator to indicate the approximate location of your buried utility lines, pipes, and cables, or they will let you know if the buried lines are clear.
- To determine the proper location for the locator to designate, pre-mark your digging area in white paint.
- The locators will use the color-coded to the right to mark the approximate position of underground wires.
- DIG SAFELY!
If you damage or come into contact with a buried utility line, call Underground Services. They can be reached at 811 or (800) 642-2444. If a natural gas line is damaged, move to a safe location. Call 911 first, and then call your gas company.
Website: call811.com for more information.
