Are you planning an outdoor project? Call 8-1-1 before you dig!
Whether you're planting a tree, installing a fence, putting in a deck, or tackling another project that involves moving soil, you never know what's below the surface. Hitting an underground utility line can lead to property damage, service interruptions, serious injuries, and costly repairs.
Washington State Law defines excavation as “…any operation, including the installation of signs, in which earth, rock, or other material on or below the ground is moved or otherwise displaced by any means” [Revised Code of Washington 19.122.020 (10)].
You are required to notify utilities of your intent to dig, but calling all the potential utilities in your area is a big task. But you can call 8-1-1 or submit a request online at Dig Safe Washington and they will complete the notification for you. Your local utilities will visit your property and mark the lines, so you avoid hitting them when you work.
A few important things to remember:
- Contact 8-1-1 between 2 and 10 full business days before you plan to start digging.
- The day you submit your request, weekends, and legal holidays don't count as business days for the above.
- Don't start digging until all affected utilities have responded.
8-1-1 doesn't locate everything. Privately owned facilities such as invisible fences, power to outbuildings, pool systems, septic systems, and other private lines, may not be marked by public utilities. If you suspect you have private facilities, contact a private utility locator.
Dig smart. Dig safe. Call 8-1-1 or visit Dig Safe Washington.