Understanding Public vs. Private Utility Locating Services

When embarking on a construction project, understanding the differences between state-provided and private utility locating services is crucial to avoid unforeseen complications.

State-Provided Utility Locating Services

Every state offers a complimentary service designed to help excavators identify public utilities, accessible through the 811 hotline. This service, under various names such as Digline or Onecall, is mandated to ensure the safety and integrity of public utilities like water, electricity, gas, communications, and sewer systems.

Key Points:

• Responsibility: It’s the contractor’s duty to contact 811 before digging, minimizing the risk of damaging utility lines.
• Scope: These services cover public utilities only, meaning lines on public property up to their connection to private facilities.
• Limitations: While essential for every new construction, these services often provide basic information and may lack comprehensive data needed for detailed planning.

Private Utility Locating Services

Private services take utility location to the next level, providing more in-depth insights and mapping capabilities. They are particularly beneficial when you need information beyond what 811 can provide.

Highlights:

• Detailed Data: These companies can offer specifics about utility depth, the presence of abandoned lines, and other critical details.
• Advanced Technology: High-quality digital maps and other deliverables are more readily available through private firms, supporting more precise and informed planning decisions.
• Differentiated Coverage: They cover private lines—those connected to facilities on private property—not typically included in state-provided services.