Do I Need to Call 811 to Plant a Tree?

Planting trees in your yard is a great way to enhance the beauty of your property and promote a greener environment. However, before you start digging, it’s important to know if you need to call 811 to have your underground utilities marked. Calling 811 is a critical step to avoid hitting underground utility lines, which can lead to serious consequences such as power outages, gas leaks, and harm to you and those around you.

The Importance of Calling 811

811 is a free and easy way to protect yourself and your community. When you call 811, your local utility companies will be notified to mark the location of their underground lines, pipes, and cables that may be in your yard. This will prevent accidental damage and ensure the safety of everyone involved. Whether you’re planting a tree, installing a fence, or digging a pool, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

When to Call 811

You should call 811 before starting any digging or excavation work that could potentially damage underground utilities. This includes planting trees or shrubs, installing a fence, building a deck or shed, and digging a trench or ditch. You should also call 811 if you are planning to use heavy machinery, such as a backhoe or excavator. Even if you think you know where your utility lines are located, it’s still essential to call 811 to make sure you have the most up-to-date information.

How to Call 811

Calling 811 is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. First, you need to gather information about your project, including the location, scope, and date of your planned excavation. Then, you can contact 811 by phone, email, or online form. Your call will be forwarded to your local call center, where a representative will gather more information about your project and notify the appropriate utility companies to mark their lines. Once the lines have been marked, you can begin your excavation process with confidence.

What to Expect After Calling 811

After you call 811, you can expect to receive a visit from utility locators who will mark the location of their underground lines using either spray paint or flags. The locators will use different colors to indicate different types of lines, such as yellow for gas, red for electric, and blue for water. You should not remove or disturb these markings until your excavation work is finished. After completing your project, you should verify that all underground utility lines have been avoided and the markings have been removed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, calling 811 is a critical step that should not be overlooked when planting a tree or doing any excavation work on your property. Ignoring this important safety measure can result in significant damage, injuries, and even death. By taking the time to call 811, you are prioritizing the safety of yourself and those around you, as well as protecting the integrity of the utility infrastructure in your community. So, before you start digging, call 811 and enjoy planting your tree with peace of mind.