Free Printable Resource
Before You Dig Checklist
A complete pre-dig checklist for homeowners and contractors. Print it, take it to the job site, and check off every step before the first shovel goes in.
How to use:
Print this page (Ctrl+P / Cmd+P) or use your browser's "Save as PDF" option. The print version is formatted for a single US Letter page. Or use the interactive checklist online.
Phase 1 — Before Submitting Your 811 Ticket
Planned all excavation areas — know exact locations and depths
Sketch or photograph the planned dig area before starting
Pre-marked excavation area with white paint, flags, or stakes
White = proposed dig area — helps locators focus on the right spots
Identified all private lines in the area (not covered by 811)
Irrigation, landscape lighting, invisible dog fence, propane, outbuilding power
Located or mapped any known private lines near dig area
Check installation records, original contractor, or hire a private locator
Phase 2 — Submitting Your 811 Ticket
Submitted 811 ticket at least 3 business days before planned dig date
Call 811 or use your state's online portal
Recorded ticket number: ____________________
Keep this — you need it to check status and re-notify
Recorded ticket submission date: ____________________
Calculated earliest legal dig date for my state: ____________________
Use dig811guide.pages.dev/tools/wait-time-lookup.html
Set re-notify reminder on calendar: ____________________
Set this 3 days before your ticket expiration date
Phase 3 — After Locators Visit
Confirmed all utilities responded in the ticket system
Every utility must show "marked" or "clear" — not just some of them
Walked full dig area and photographed all utility markings
Photos protect you if marks are later disturbed or disputed
Identified all marks within 18–24 inches of planned excavation
This is the "tolerance zone" — hand digging only within this zone
Adjusted dig locations away from marks where possible
Contacted utility for depth info on any marks within 24" of dig
Use the flag/paint code to identify which utility and call their business line
Phase 4 — Ready to Dig
Ticket wait period has fully elapsed (not digging early)
All marks still visible and intact — not faded, covered, or removed
If marks are faded, re-notify and request re-marking before digging
Hand-dig tools on site for use near any utility marks
Know emergency steps if a utility line is struck
Gas: evacuate + call 911. Electric: step back + call 911. All: stop work + report.
Ticket is still valid (not expired) — re-notified if needed
Check expiration: dig811guide.pages.dev/re-notify.html
Related Resources
Wait Time Calculator
Interactive tool with a digital version of this checklist.
Private Lines Guide
What 811 won't mark and how to find it.
Color Code Guide
What the paint marks in your yard mean.