The only way you can be sure that you are digging safely is to Call 811 Before You Dig, and request a FREE underground utility locate.
Who do I call before I dig around my house?
811
811 is the national call-before-you-dig phone number. Anyone who plans to dig should call 811 or go to their state 811 center’s website before digging to request that the approximate location of buried utilities be marked with paint or flags so that you don’t unintentionally dig into an underground utility line.
What number do you call if you want to dig?
811 is a free service managed by Underground Service Alert and available to everyone. After you call, Underground Service Alert will contact PG&E and other companies that have underground lines in your area. Representatives will then mark the location of their underground lines so you can avoid them and dig safely.
Who do you call in Texas before you dig?
Texas 811 System
Texas 811 System – Texas 811
One phone call to 811 from anywhere in Texas will route your call to Texas 811, which will alert owners of pipelines, telecommunication cables and power lines to mark their buried assets within at least 48 hours, Monday through Friday, except holidays, of the request.
How do you dig around utility lines?
How do you dig around utilities? If you are digging around utilities, you should always use a rounded or blunt-edged shovel. You should always start by digging to the side of the marked utility. You should not pry around a utility line to remove soil.
Is DigAlert free?
Answer: It’s free for anyone that is digging to get a DigAlert ticket. Our services are paid for by the owners of underground facilities.
When should I contact a DigAlert?
California law requires that you call two (2) working days, not including the date of notification, before your planned excavation. However, if you are digging because of an EMERGENCY, you are not required by law to call.
What is the 411 number used for?
Most phone companies allow you to access directory assistance service by dialing “411.” Other directory assistance services require a different dialing pattern such as 555-1212, a toll free number or a number that starts with “10-10.” Charges will vary significantly, check the rate before using any directory assistance
How do I find power lines in my yard?
811 is the Federal Communications Commission’s national utility location hotline. Before digging, you should always call this number or visit your state’s 811 website to place a utility line locator request.
How do you call a dig?
811 is the national call-before-you-dig phone number.
Is 811 free in Texas?
The call to 811 is free and invaluable to you, your family and neighbors. Homeowners can also file an online request to locate on the Texas 811 website at https://txhop.texas811.org/.
Do you need a permit to dig in Texas?
YES. The Texas One-Call law requires anyone (with a few exceptions such as cemeteries) to call at least 2 working days (48 hours excluding weekends and holidays) before you dig if you are planning on digging 16 inches or deeper using mechanical equipment. How long do I have to wait?
How deep are power lines buried in Texas?
The lines shall be buried a minimum of 36 inches under highway ditches, and 60 inches below the pavement structure. Encasement shall be provided as outlined in this section.
How deep is electric line buried?
36 inches
Direct buried cables or cables in flexible nonmetallic enclosures shall be installed at a depth of at least 36 inches.
How close to my house can I dig?
As long as your foundation is structurally secure, you can dig right beside it without compromising its integrity — until you reach the footing. Potential problems with the dig include trench collapse and the unintended disturbance of utility lines or pipes.
Can you hand dig around utility lines?
Dig with care
Whenever you hand dig near buried utility lines, take care to prevent damage: Use a rounded or blunt-edged shovel. Sharp tools like pickaxes, mattocks, pry bars or pointed spades may gouge or puncture lines. Begin digging off to the side of the marked utility line.
How long does a permit to dig last?
How long are permits valid for? Adult and junior permits are valid for three years from the date of purchase.
How much can you dig in a day?
An excavator could be used to dig anywhere from 350 to 1,000 cubic yards per day, depending on a number of factors including bucket capacity, type of ground, operator skill and efficiency level, and more.
Is DigAlert law?
Yes. The law states that anyone doing any type of digging, with power driven equipment or when a permit is required MUST contact DigAlert prior to excavation. The consequences for not doing so are not only severe but could lead to injury or loss of life.
How long does it take to get a response from dial before you dig?
Members are encouraged to respond within 2 business days. If you have not heard from them, their contact details can be found on the Dig Site Confirmation Sheet you receive from Before You Dig and you will need to contact them directly to follow up your enquiry.
How deep can you dig in California without a permit?
Either a Project Permit or an Annual Permit is required: To construct a trench or an excavation 5 feet or deeper into which any person is required to descend.