Miss Utility

If you are planning to dig in your yard, be sure to call Miss Utility at least 3 days in advance (not counting weekends and holidays) to have your underground utilities marked. You are responsible for damage to underground lines if you do not call Miss Utility before you dig. Simply dial 811 or (800) 552-7001.

The 811 Process For Homeowners

1. Notify

Notify your local one-call center by calling 811 or making an online request 2 to 3 days before work begins. Click here for information about your local one-call center and online service availability. The one-call center will transmit information to affected utility operators.

2. Wait

Wait 2-3 days (varies by state; please click here for state law information) for affected utility operators to respond to your request. On average, between 7-8 utility operators are notified for each request.

3. Confirm

Confirm that all affected utility operators have responded to your request by comparing the marks to the list of utilities the one-call center notified. State laws vary on the process for confirmation; please check with your local one-call center for more information.

4. Respect

Respect the marks. The marks provided by the affected utility operators are your guide for the duration of your project. If you are unable to maintain the marks during your project, or the project will continue past your request’s expiration date (varies by state), please call 811 to ask for a re-mark.

5. Dig Carefully

Dig carefully. If you can’t avoid digging near the marks (within 18 to 24 inches on all sides, depending on state law), consider moving your project to another part of your yard. If you must dig near the marks or use machinery of any kind, please click here to read “The 811 Process of Contractors.”

*For projects that include planting a tree, installing a mailbox, or building a deck, among others.