# 811 Call Before You Dig

> Rules and permits from Common Ground Alliance and state 811 centers (Other) for United States.

Official page: https://call811.com/
Source: https://treerm.org/residents/programs/us-811-call-before-you-dig · Updated 2026-11-08 · Status: Open

**What you get:** Free marking of buried utility lines before you dig a planting hole, required in every state

811 is the free national before-you-dig service. Anyone planning to dig, including homeowners planting trees and shrubs, contacts 811 by phone or through their state 811 center's website a few business days ahead; utilities then mark buried lines with paint or flags. Not calling is the top cause of utility damage, and even shallow shovel work counts as digging.

## Who qualifies

Everyone who digs on any property in the United States, including homeowners planting trees on their own land.

## How to apply

Call 811 or submit a request on your state 811 center's website a few business days before digging. Have the address, county, nearest cross street, type of project and the exact dig area ready; wait until all utilities have responded and marked before breaking ground.

**For:** Homeowners, Renters, Landowners, Farmers, Businesses, Schools, HOAs, Community groups

> Note: Advance notice periods (typically two to three business days) and legal penalties are set by each state's dig law.