Replacing underground utilities is a complex process. Whenever excavating or digging into the ground is required, it’s critical to understand exactly where buried utility lines are located – in order to avoid causing serious damage to underground infrastructure on your property. Here’s what you need to know before digging.

What Are Underground Utilities?

The term “utility” refers to the services provided by public utility companies, including electricity, natural gas, water, sewage, and telephone lines.

“Underground utilities” refers to subterranean infrastructure like pipes and cables that transport water, gas, telecommunications, and electricity to households and businesses. There are nearly two million miles of underground utilities in the United States, which equates to over one hundred years of underground line per person in the entire country.

Whenever digging into the ground, it’s imperative to locate underground utility lines on the site before penetrating the surface. Identifying and marking underground public utility lines is known as “utility location.” While privately owned lines are generally the responsibility of the landowner (this may include natural gas lines, private sewer laterals, sprinkler systems as well as electricity and telecom lines), underground utilities are usually the responsibility of public utility companies and homeowner. Utility companies will send a technician to visit the property and mark the location of all underground utility lines. This process free of charge in most municipalities. Contact your local utility providers to request underground location services..

What Are the Hazards of Replacing Underground Utilities?

According to the Common Ground Alliance, an underground utility line is damaged once every 6 minutes nationwide, because someone dug into the ground without understanding the location of underground lines. While these mistakes are often caused by large excavation projects, a simple mailbox installation or even a small gardening project can sometimes lead to a breach of underground utility lines.

In many jurisdictions, it’s also a legal requirement to notify the public utility before any digging or excavation. Most locator services require a service request at least two days before beginning a digging project.

Contact a Local Licensed Professional

Although hidden from view, underground utility lines are a critical part of basic infrastructure. If you’re planning an expansion or require digging for any other reason, choosing a proper permitted and licensed professional will ensure that any excavation in the public right-of-way is completed responsibly and in accordance with code.

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