Prevent Costly Digging Mistakes: Call 811 First in North Dakota
Whether you are planning a major home improvement job, planting a new tree, or installing a fence, there is one crucial step you must take before your shovel hits the dirt: You must call 811 before you dig.
Digging without knowing what lies beneath the surface puts you, your family, and your neighbors at risk. It can cause service outages, severe injuries, and costly repairs. At NDTC, we are committed to providing a quality communication network that strengthens our communities. Part of that commitment is helping you understand excavation safety so our local neighborhoods remain safe and connected.
Understanding the North Dakota Digging Law
North Dakota law requires anyone conducting an excavation to notify North Dakota One Call (NDOC). This notification ensures operators can mark the locations of their underground facilities at no cost to you.
The North Dakota Public Service Commission enforces the state’s underground damage prevention laws. These rules are detailed in the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 49-23 for the One Call Excavation Notice System. The NDPSC One Call and Damage Prevention team takes action if violations occur, emphasizing how seriously the state takes underground utility protection.
How to Submit a Locate Request: A Step-by-Step Guide
Filing a locate request with North Dakota One Call is a simple, straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure your project goes smoothly and safely:
1. Mark your proposed excavation area
Use white paint or white flags to clearly outline the exact area where you plan to dig. This helps utility operators know exactly where to focus their locating efforts.
2. Contact North Dakota One Call
Call 811 at least 48 hours before your project start date (excluding weekends and holidays). As you describe your project, an NDOC representative will complete a ticket for you. You can also use their online ticketing solution, ITIC, for a fast and efficient digital option. Keep in mind that your ticket is valid for 21 calendar days.
3. Wait for the utility markings
NDOC will send your ticket to member utilities so they can mark their underground utility lines and confirm if they interfere with your plans. You can easily check the status of your ticket anytime on the NDOC website.
Important Note: Private facilities that are not NDOC members will not be marked. If you are a property owner or tenant with private underground lines (like sprinkler systems or private lighting cables), you are responsible for locating them yourself or hiring a private locator.
4. Dig safely
Once all member utilities have marked their lines, you can begin your project in the approved area. Always respect the marks and use proper hand-digging tools and techniques when working close to the indicated lines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Excavation Safety
Why is it important to call 811?
Calling 811 protects you from accidentally hitting buried gas, water, electric, or communication lines. Striking a line can cause widespread outages, fines, and physical harm.
Does it cost money to submit a locate request?
No. Utility operators mark their public underground facilities entirely free of charge for the caller.
What happens if I accidentally damage an underground line?
If any damage occurs to an underground facility or its protective covering, you must notify the operator immediately. If the damage results in the escape of a flammable, toxic, or corrosive gas or liquid, you must immediately call 911 and then notify the pipeline operator.
Keep Your Community Connected and Safe
At NDTC, we take pride in empowering our communities and ensuring reliable, exceptional service. Following proper excavation safety practices helps us protect the vital infrastructure that keeps our towns running smoothly.
Before you start your next landscaping or building project, remember to make the free call to 811.
For more from NDTC, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.