How it Works

Getting your lines marked is quick and easy with 811. When you dial 811, your call is forwarded to the One Call Center in your area for processing. Local One Call Center operators record the location of the dig and then notify the affected utility companies of your digging plans. Your utility companies then dispatch a professional locating crew to mark the approximate location of your lines within a few days.

You should be sure to call 811 a few days in advance of your scheduled dig to allow time for the request to be processed. Once your lines are marked, you will know their approximate location and you can dig safely. Knowing what's below will protect you, your family and your neighbors.

Frequently Asked Questions

You'll find quick answers to the most frequently asked questions about 811 and the Common Ground Alliance below. If you have other questions about safe digging, let us know:

Q: Why should I call 811 before every dig?

A: Don't gamble with your safety — if you're a professional excavator or a homeowner, smart digging always requires a call to 811. Knowing where underground utility lines are buried before you dig will help protect you from injury and prevent damages to utilities, service disruptions and potential fines and repair costs. Whether you're planting a tree or shrub, or installing a deck or pool, every job requires a call—Even if you've called before for a similar project. The depth of utility lines varies, and there may be multiple utility lines in one common area. Marked lines show you the approximate location of underground lines and help prevent undesired consequences such as injury, service disruptions to an entire neighborhood, or costly fines and repair costs.

Q: I'm just a homeowner, not a contractor—is 811 for me?

A: Smart digging always means calling 811 before each job. Whether you're a do-it-yourselfer planning a weekend project or a professional excavator contracted for a home improvement job, one phone call to 811 will get your underground utility lines marked for free.

Q: I've called my local "Call Before You Dig" number before - will 811 replace this service?

A: No, 811 will not replace your local one call number. The One Call process will remain the same and continue to notify your local affected utility companies, who will continue to mark your underground lines for free. With more than 62 local one call numbers across the country, 811 eliminates the confusion of multiple "Call Before You Dig" numbers by providing one national number you can call to get your lines marked.