Starting a DIY backyard project like installing a fence, planting a tree, or adding a fire pit can be exciting, but before you dig, it’s crucial to mark hidden utilities. Failing to identify underground utilities risks your project, safety, and property. Keep reading to learn about the hidden utilities you need to mark before digging.
The Risks of Not Identifying Utilities
You may be thinking that you’re not digging far into your backyard, so what’s the harm? Unmarked utilities beneath your yard pose serious risks, from severe injury or death caused by hitting electrical lines to explosions or gas leaks from damaged gas lines.
Striking water lines could flood your property and delay projects, while repair costs for damaging utilities fall on you—and they’re not cheap. Beyond personal safety, disrupting utilities can leave your community without essential services like electricity, water, or internet. To avoid the costs, risks, and inconvenience, always mark hidden utilities before starting any digging project.
Public Utilities to Watch For
The first thing that homeowners need to mark when digging in the backyard is the public utilities. The public hidden utilities you need to mark before digging include:
- Gas
- Electricity
- Water
- Sewer
- Communications (Internet, phone, and cable lines.)
These are essential services that crisscross many properties underground, and without adequate marking, you could accidentally strike one and harm yourself and disable the utility.
Don’t Forget Private Utilities
Private utilities are underground lines installed and maintained by homeowners or private businesses, unlike public utilities, which municipalities and utility companies manage. While these may not be essential services, striking one on accident is no less dangerous to you and the community. Examples of private utilities include:
- Irrigation systems
- Underground septic tanks
- Swimming pool lines
- Outdoor lighting wires
- Propane gas lines
If you have an underground septic tank, swimming pool, or any of the other utilities listed, you must mark them safely before you dig.
How to Mark Utilities Before Digging
We know what utilities you must mark, but how do you mark them? Start by contacting 811 at least two to three working days before you dig. 811 is a free service specifically for the safe and secure marking of public utilities. Representatives will mark public service lines using color codes—red for electrical lines, yellow for gas or oil pipes, etc.
For private utility lines, you’ll need to hire a professional private utility locator. Private utility locators aren’t free, since they mark only private utilities the property owner is responsible for. They will send a locator to safely mark any hidden utilities 811 didn’t mark so you can dig with peace of mind. Proper preparation helps ensure a safe, successful project that stays compliant with regulations.
Wrapping Up Safely
Marking hidden utilities is essential for any DIY project to avoid costly damage, community disruptions, and potential injury. Understanding the risks of unmarked lines, identifying public and private utilities, and using services like 811 or private locators ensures a safer, smoother process. Before breaking ground, take the time to map what’s beneath the surface—your safety, wallet, and neighbors will thank you.
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