The Process - Virginia811

The Process

What?

Before you dig, submit a Single Address Ticket to request markings at your project site.

Markings are color-coded lines that are drawn on your property to indicate the location of underground utilities.

Once a Single Address Ticket is requested and processed, crews are dispatched to the address to mark utility lines with environmentally friendly marking materials.

Suburban Houses Street View

When?

To avoid damaging underground utility lines on their property, contact Virginia 811 at least three business days (excluding weekends and legal holidays) before beginning any digging project.

Once you have submitted your locate request, markings will be completed in approximately three business days.

Positive Response Codes

Why?

Calling 811 before you dig is the LAW.

If you are planning any type of digging project, you should contact Virginia 811. Many utilities, such as cable television lines, are buried very close to the surface. There is no cost to the homeowner for our service.

Shovel Damage to Yellow Gas Line

Dig With Care

Once you submit your locate request, do NOT dig before you receive a Positive Response email from Virginia 811. This will give you the status of your request. Utilities will indicate if they have marked lines, or if their lines are not in conflict with your project.

Yellow Boot on Shovel Digging in Dirt

Underground Utility Locating Contractors

This is a list of some of the underground utility locating companies working in Virginia (“Locating Companies”). There may be others. Check online by searching “Utility Locating” or visit the National Utility Locating Contractors Association website at www.nulca.org for more information.

Shovel in grass with 3 locator flags
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