National Safe Digging Day
August 11th (8/11) is designated as National Safe Digging Day to remind homeowners and professional excavators to call 811 before starting any digging project.
An underground utility line is damaged every few minutes in the U.S. because someone didn’t check before putting a shovel or excavator into the ground. Calling 811 connects you to your local one-call center, which sends utility companies out to mark buried lines for free.
5-Step Safe Digging Process
- Pre-Mark Your Area: Use white paint or flags to outline the exact area where you plan to dig.
- Contact 811: Call 811 or submit an online request at least 2-3 business days before breaking ground.
- Wait for Responses: Give utility locators time to visit your site and mark the location of their buried infrastructure.
- Confirm the Markings: Ensure every local utility provider has responded and marked their respective lines.
- Dig with Care: Use hand tools (like a shovel) within 24 inches of any marked lines.
What the Utility Flag Colors Mean
When locators visit your property, they use the official APWA (American Public Works Association) standardized color code:
Important Reminder: Calling 811 only marks public utility lines. Private lines–such as power lines running to a detached garage, invisible dog fences, or sprinkler lines–won’t be marked by 811 locators.
Whether you’re planting a tree, building a fence, or installing a mailbox, making that quick 811 call or online request is the single easiest step to prevent accidental service outages, costly repair bills, or serious physical injury.
