811 is a vital nationwide service designed to promote safe digging practices by helping homeowners and professionals avoid accidents involving underground utilities. Whether you are planning a simple home project like planting a garden or installing a mailbox, or undertaking larger endeavors such as landscaping or utility work, 811 is the first call you should make. By contacting 811 or visiting your state’s 811 center website a few days before you start digging, you can request that the approximate locations of buried utilities be marked.

This free service aims to prevent costly damages and ensure the safety of communities, as damages to buried utilities can amount to around $30 billion annually. Users must provide crucial information like the project's address and type before receiving utility markings, enabling safer excavation practices. With a commitment to “Every Dig, Every Time,” 811 stands as an essential resource for anyone planning to dig, safeguarding both property and safety