Effective June 1: 3F Code Comments Required to Document Agreed Locate Delays Between Locators, Excavators
Beginning June 1, 2026
When using the 3F positive response code, members and locators must enter the following in the designated 3F comment field:
Date and time the agreement was made [Format: 01-01-26; 01:15 AM/PM]
Name and phone number of the excavator who agreed to the delay [Format: John Digman, 800-432-4770 and/or email ]
Brief summary of the agreement
This clear documentation supports better coordination and safer outcomes for everyone.
Steps Members and Locators Can Take Now
Members and their locators using a ticket management system will need to configure them to capture 3F comments and make them available through Exactix. For assistance, use the information below.
Sunshine 811 hosted Utilisphere/IrthNet Users (sunshine.irth.com)
Email [email protected]; or
Call 811or (800) 432-4770 and select option 3.Other Ticket Management System Users – If your developers need more information
Submit a support request at [email protected]
Note: We previously announced this requirement with a February 1 effective date. Based on member feedback, the deadline has been extended to allow additional time for implementation. We apologize for any confusion and appreciate your cooperation.
Working Better Together
This update supports clearer coordination in response to increased ticket volumes and inconsistent use of the 3F code. Our underground infrastructure is a shared public asset and protecting it depends on accurate communication and coordination across the 811 system. We appreciate your help in ensuring accurate responses.
*Regulatory Reference: 556.105(5)(a) …If the member operator is unable to respond within such time, the member operator shall communicate with the person making the request and negotiate a new schedule and time that is agreeable to, and should not unreasonably delay, the excavator.