What is 811? Why You Need to Call Before You Dig

Before you start any digging project, there’s one crucial step you can’t skip — calling 811. 811 is the national "Call Before You Dig" number that connects homeowners and contractors to local utility companies. These companies will mark the locations of underground lines, ensuring you can dig safely.

This simple call can prevent serious accidents, expensive utility damage, and service disruptions. In this guide, we’ll explain what 811 is, why it’s important, and what to expect when you call.

What is 811?

811 is a federally designated dig-safe phone number that helps locate underground utility lines before excavation begins. It’s available in all 50 states, making it easy to access no matter where you live. The service is free and helps protect both property and public safety.

811 is designed to prevent accidental damage to essential utilities. Digging without calling 811 can lead to injuries, fines, and repairs. To stay safe, it’s always best to check before you dig.

What is 811 Used For?

811 is used to locate underground utility lines before any digging project, such as:

Installing fences, mailboxes, or signposts
Planting trees or large shrubs
Digging trenches for sprinkler systems or drainage
Laying foundation work for decks, patios, or sheds
Excavating for new construction or landscaping projects

The utility lines 811 is used to protect include:

Gas lines: Hitting a gas pipe can cause leaks, fires, or explosions.
Electric cables: Striking buried power lines can lead to electrocution or outages.
Water and sewer lines: Damaging these can lead to costly repairs and contamination risks.
Internet and phone cables: Cutting a fiber-optic line can disrupt service for an entire neighborhood.

How Does Calling 811 Work?

Calling 811 is a simple process. Here’s what to expect:

Wait until a few days before your project starts: This gives your local 811 office a chance to alert utility companies, but it’s not so far in advance that the markings will fade by the time your project starts.
Call 811 or submit an online request: Provide details about your project, including the location and depth of your planned dig.
Wait for utility markings: Utility companies will send technicians to mark underground lines with color-coded paint or flags.

By following these steps, you reduce the risk of hitting utility lines and ensure a safe excavation process.

Why is Calling 811 Before You Dig Important?

Digging without calling 811 is risky — and potentially illegal, depending on where you live. Here are a few reasons you should always call 811 before you dig:

Safety hazards: Hitting a gas or electrical line can cause severe injuries or even fatalities.
Costly repairs: Damaging utility lines can lead to thousands of dollars in repair bills.
Service disruptions: Cutting a water, power, or internet line can impact entire neighborhoods.
Legal consequences: Many states impose fines for failing to call 811 before digging.

It’s not worth the risk. A simple call to 811 can prevent these problems and ensure a smooth, safe project.

What Happens After You Call 811?

Once you contact 811, utility companies in your area will respond by marking underground lines. Here’s what to expect:

Your state 811 center will alert utility operators in your area about your project. On average, they send notifications to 7-8 companies.
Utility crews arrive within a few days. They use spray paint or flags to indicate underground pipes and cables. Each utility type has a designated color:

Red: Electric
Yellow: Gas or oil
Blue: Water
Green: Sewer
Orange: Communication (phone, internet, cable)

Markings remain visible for a set period. If they fade, you may need to call for a refresh before digging.
Digging must respect these markings. It’s best to dig at least two feet away from marked lines to avoid accidental damage.

After each utility company has left its mark, you can confirm that all utilities in the area have responded. That process varies depending on where you live, but your 811 operator should explain it to you.

How to Stay Safe When Digging Near Marked Lines

Even after calling 811, it’s important to dig carefully. Here are a few safety tips for working around marked utility lines:

Use hand tools when digging near the marked lines.
Avoid heavy machinery in marked areas unless necessary.
Check depth restrictions. Some lines may be buried shallowly due to erosion or previous work.
Be mindful of weather conditions. Heavy rain or soil shifts can move utility lines slightly.

If you’re working on a larger excavation project, it might be best to consult professionals. Learn more about why you might need to dig up your yard before starting your project.

Why It’s Important to Be Aware Before You Dig

Calling 811 is a simple but essential step to avoid dangerous and costly mistakes. 811 helps locate underground utilities to prevent damage and ensure safety. When you don’t call 811, it can lead to accidents, service outages, and fines.

Don’t take unnecessary risks. If you have an upcoming project that requires excavation, call 811 first.

If you want a plumbing company that knows how to work around 811 markings, consider Roto-Rooter. Our expert Roto-Rooter sewer solutions specialists can ensure your project is completed safely and efficiently. Schedule your appointment today.