A simple process that protects you, your property, and underground utilities.
When you submit a locate request, a clear process begins behind the scenes. Here’s what happens.
01
Before digging begins, submit a locate request online or by calling 811.
• Submit at least 2 – 10 full working days notice. (not counting the day of notification)
• Provide the address and a clear description of your work area
• Mark your project area with white paint or flags if possible
• It is FREE to submit a request
02
Alabama 811 is not a utility company. We act as the communication center.
• Participating utility companies in your area are notified
• Only utilities with facilities near your work site will respond
• Each utility marks its own lines
03
Utility representatives will visit your property to mark underground facilities using paint or small flags.
• Markings show the approximate location of buried lines
• Each utility uses a standardized color code
• Depth is not indicated
04
Before digging, confirm that all utilities have responded to your locate request ticket.
• Some utilities mark with paint or flags
• Some may respond with a “clear” message
• You can check the status of your locate request ticket online
• Do not dig until all required responses are complete
Already submitted a request?
05
Once all utilities have responded, you may begin digging.
• Respect the 18-inch tolerance zone on each side of marked lines
• Use caution when digging near markings
• If a line is damaged, stop work immediately and contact 811
| If markings are unclear, damaged, or missing, contact 811 before digging.
