Understanding the Difference: Private Utility Locating vs. One Call Public Utility Locating

When planning to dig, it’s essential to understand the key differences between private utility locating services and One Call public utility locating services to ensure safe and efficient excavation.

Private Utility Locating Services

Private utilities are those hidden underground lines that stretch beyond the reach of public responsibility. These include:

• Electrical feeders: Lines supplying power to specific facilities.
• Gas mains: Pipelines running to industrial complexes or refineries.
• Other specialized lines: Connections leading to substations, manufacturing plants, and similar entities.

These private lines are not covered by the One Call public utility systems. Therefore, they require specialized detection by private utility locating companies. Engaging these services ensures that all underground utilities, especially the privately maintained ones, are accurately mapped before any digging occurs.

One Call Public Utility Locating Services

Federal regulations dictate that before breaking ground, individuals must contact the 811 One Call system. This service organizes the location of publicly maintained utility lines, generally those leading up to but not beyond, utility meters. Public utility locating is essential to avoid damaging common utility infrastructure such as:

• Electrical lines
• Water mains
• Telecommunication cables

However, it’s significant to recognize that the majority of utilities on any given property, about 60-65%, are private lines not covered by One Call. This highlights the importance of hiring a service that can pinpoint both public and private utilities.