The Complete Guide to Calling 811 Before You Dig
State-by-state wait times, APWA color codes, private line rules, project-specific guides, and a free dig date calculator — everything you need before the first shovel goes in.
Essential Guides
Everything you need to understand the 811 process, what to do before you dig, and what happens when things go wrong.
How 811 Works — Step by Step
From submitting your ticket to understanding the marks in your yard. The complete process explained for homeowners.
Read guide →811 Paint Color Code Guide
What red, yellow, orange, blue, green, white, pink, and purple marks mean — and the hand-dig rules near each one.
See all colors →What 811 Does NOT Cover
Irrigation systems, landscape lighting, invisible dog fences, propane lines — private lines 811 won't mark and what to do about them.
Critical read →Wait Times by State
Every state's required waiting period — 2 to 3 business days depending on where you are. Full table with re-notify windows.
See your state →Ticket Expired Mid-Project?
What to do when your 811 ticket expires before digging is done — and how to avoid work stoppages on longer projects.
Re-notify guide →What to Do If You Hit a Line
Immediate safety steps if you strike a utility line during excavation — who to call, what not to do, and liability basics.
Emergency guide →811 Wait Time Calculator
Select your state and ticket date — get your exact legal dig date, ticket expiration, re-notify reminder, and printable pre-dig checklist. No signup required.
Guides by Project Type
Different projects have different 811 considerations. Here's what you need to know for the most common homeowner digging situations.
Fence Post Installation
Power augers and post-hole diggers are among the most common causes of utility strikes. Here's the right process for fence projects.
Tree Removal & Stump Grinding
Stump grinders reach 12–18 inches deep. Root excavation goes deeper. 811 is required before any tree removal involving ground work.
Deck Footings & Piers
Deck footings often need to go below frost line — 36 to 60 inches in cold climates. That puts you deep in utility territory.
Irrigation System Installation
Trenching for irrigation lines crosses every utility corridor in your yard. 811 is step one, but private line awareness is step two.
Swimming Pool Excavation
Pool digs are major excavations — 5 to 8 feet deep over a large footprint. The most critical 811 call you'll ever make.
Shed Foundation & Anchoring
Ground anchors, concrete piers, and helical piles for sheds and outbuildings all require an 811 ticket first.
State-Specific 811 Guides
Each state has its own one-call center, wait period, re-notify window, and online portal. Find your state below.
Free Pre-Dig Checklist (PDF)
A print-ready homeowner checklist covering every step before excavation: ticket submission, wait time, mark documentation, private line assessment, and re-notify scheduling. Keep it on the job site.
Download Free PDF Checklist