It is important to call 811 for a utility mark-out when planning any type of digging job from planting a small tree, to installing a new water main or sewer line. The depth of all utility lines differ pending underground conditions and the layout of surrounding utilities. It is not safe to assume “I am not digging that deep” and you shouldn’t have to worry.
Call 811 from your home a few days prior to digging, you will quickly be in-touch with a local operator who will assist in completing a quick questionnaire. A locator will be dispatched to the house within 1-3 days and will mark an approximate location of all gas and electric pipes, cables and wires.
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It is often that a homeowner will require an emergency sewer or water main repair if either of the pipes are leaking. In this case you can call for an emergency mark-out, and should expect the locator on site within a few hours.
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It is common for a person to assume that their dig is not too deep or will be quick and does not have to waste time calling 811. This thought process is common and results in a disruption to an entire neighborhoods service. It is also possible to encounter a utility and harm the person digging or people in close proximity. If this occurs there may be fines and repair cost charged to the person digging.
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Recently in NYC a utility contractor attempted to install a new pole on the sidewalk without calling 811. The dig resulted in a broken electric line and loss of power for several houses. The contractor was fined as well as summonsed to pay for the repair work.
