Aug. 11 is 811 Day: Call before you dig

Media contact: [email protected] or 360-664-1116

LACEY, Wash. - Aug. 11 is a statewide reminder for homeowners, contractors, and anyone planning to dig to contact 811 two full business days, and not more than 10 full business days before starting any project. Governor Bob Ferguson issued a proclamation officially declaring today 811 Day.

Whether you are installing a fence, planting a tree, or starting a construction project, calling 811 or visiting callbeforeyoudig.org is the safest way to locate buried utility lines and avoid dangerous and costly accidents. Contacting 811 is the law and is free (except in limited situations).

If you have issues with a locate request-such as delays, incomplete markings, or inaccuracies-contact the UTC Consumer Help Line at 1-888-333-WUTC (9882) or email [email protected].

Recent changes to Washington's dig law aim to improve safety and prevent damage to underground utilities. The changes clarify responsibilities for excavators and utility operators and strengthen enforcement tools.

Anyone planning to dig must clearly outline the dig area before submitting a locate request. Once the request is submitted, professional locators will mark the location of underground utility lines using color-coded paint or markers. The markings help ensure safe digging and must be followed carefully. To learn more about the law, view the full legislation.

Digging without knowing what lies beneath can lead to serious injury, service outages, and fines. Utility lines may be located just inches below the surface, and their depth can vary due to erosion or past landscaping. To learn more about Washington's dig law and safe digging practices, visit digsafewa.com or utc.wa.gov/diglaw.

Established by the Legislature in 1955, the UTC Pipeline Safety Program regulates the safety practices of 41 pipeline operators and conducts safety inspections on more than 47,000 miles of natural gas and hazardous-liquid pipelines in Washington. The UTC also regulates private, investor-owned electric, natural gas, telecommunication, and water utilities in the state. More information can be found on the UTC Pipeline Safety Program webpage.

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