Safe planting begins with you
Underground utility lines bring electricity, data (internet) and communications plus water, sewer and natural gas to your home. When landscaping, buried utilities suffer the most damage during the initial planting. The best way to avoid those buried utility lines when you're digging is to call 811 two full business days before you dig to have them located and marked with paint and flags. For your convenience, we also offer an online service to make that request.
TEMPORARY MARKS HELP YOU IDENTIFY UNDERGROUND UTILITY LINES
This photo shows you examples of temporary marks which are laid as a result of your call to 811. Generally, the marks are made with flags and paint in colors that represent the buried utility. (Note: The color of the actual utility line or conduit it is in does not represent the utility.) The marks give you an idea of the approximate location of underground utility lines near where you plan to replace the mailbox, fence or dig. There are precautions that you need to take when digging near this area. Click here to learn more.
811 BEFORE GRINDING A STUMP
If you look at this tree, you'll see two irrigation lines running out of its root system. The lines are broken and leaking water. Imagine if they were electric or gas lines. If you have a stump left over from the storm, call 811 before pulling it out or grinding it. Buried lines could run underneath just like what is pictured above. Always call 811 before digging. It's the law.
ROOTS CAN GROW INTO UTILITY LINES
This photo shows how roots can grow into and become entangled with underground utility lines that extend out from the electric transformer. As the roots grew, they lifted the transformer. This is also what can happen with a tree's root system and why you need to call 811 before pulling it out or grinding the stump.
On a side note, most utility companies advise you not to plant around their utility boxes for easy access during regular maintenance and repairs.
PERMANENT MARKS ALERT YOU TO NEARBY UNDERGROUND UTILITIES
When you see these markers or utility boxes, it's a good indication that buried utility lines are nearby. That's why the 811 system exists and why it's the law to call 811 two full business days before you dig. If, after calling 811, you don't see marks at your dig site and one of those markers are nearby, first check the positive response system for a no conflict code. If there isn't one, contact the utility owner.
Get more information on the Positive Response System here.