Before you break ground for a home addition, swimming pool, fence, tree planting or other project that requires excavation, drilling or digging, make sure you're clear of all underground utility lines running through your property.

Dial 811

To get your project safely underway, make one toll-free call to your state utility notification service by dialing 811 three to 10 days prior to digging. The service will contact all member utilities to mark the locations of underground facilities for you at no charge.

Play It Safe

Developers, contractors, excavators, equipment operators and anyone else working near our underground gas and electric lines also need to check O&R's Field Safety Guide to ensure compliance with regulations imposed by various local, state and federal authorities.

What Could Happen If You Don't Call?

If your shovel or backhoe strikes an underground electric or natural gas line or communications cable, you run the risk of serious accident, injury or costly property damage. You could also disrupt essential utility service and find yourself with an expensive repair bill and legal problems.

How to Identify a Utility Marking

Utility companies will mark the location of their underground facilities using either colored paint or small flags. Each type of service has its own unique color.

If a Digging Accident Occurs

If a natural gas accident occurs, immediately evacuate the area and call O&R's Gas Emergency Hotline at 1-800-533-5325. For accidents involving underground electric cables, call us at 1-877-434-4100.