New York 811

Ever wondered what those colorful flags on an excavation site mean? They’re a roadmap to safe digging! Each color represents a different type of underground utility.

Understanding these markings helps excavators avoid cutting power lines, damaging water mains, or causing a gas leak. If you see markings near your dig site, follow them carefully to keep yourself and your project on track.

Happy first day of spring! If you’re planning on tackling a seasonal project that involves digging - whether it’s planting trees, installing a new fence, or adding a garden bed - make sure you have a safety plan.

Here's an example to get you started:
✔️ Plan ahead and submit your locate request
✔️ Wait for utility lines to be marked
✔️ Dig carefully and respect the markings

A fresh start for your yard shouldn’t come with unexpected damage.

March Madness is almost here! 🏀 On the court or on a job site, a strong defense wins the game. That’s why 811 is your first line of defense against costly mistakes.

Minimize surprises and risks for a winning game plan. Contact New York 811 before you dig!

Some people believe in the luck of the Irish - but when it comes to digging, luck won’t keep you safe! Every project, from planting a tree to installing a fence, carries the risk of hitting buried utilities.

The good news? You don’t need luck - just 811! Submitting a locate request is free, easy, and the best way to keep your project on track. Plan ahead and contact New York 811 before you dig!

is thrilled to announce our first multi-day event! September 9th and 10th, 2025. Golf outing on 9/9 followed by our annual Excavation Safety Expo on 9/10. Follow this page and stay tuned for more info!

Utility locators mark the underground lines with flags or paint. Some may even leave a small sign with more information. If you see these signs, that utility has been marked, meaning you're one step closer to digging!

Did you know? On average, soil is 45% mineral, 25% air, 25% water, and 5% organic matter. But those aren’t the only things below the surface. There’s also a complex network of millions of miles of underground utilities powering our homes and communities.
Taking steps to protect these underground utilities is always 100% the right choice. Contact New York 811 before you dig into a new subterranean project.

When you submit a locate request, utility or locating companies mark the lines for electric, gas, water, telecommunications, and more—but private utility lines, like backyard irrigation systems or propane tanks, will not be located. Reach out to a private locating company if private utilities are at your worksite.

Presidents Day reminds us of leadership, responsibility, and doing what’s right. Take the lead on your next digging project—contact 811 before you dig! Safe digging is a responsibility we all share.

Are you starting a project that involves digging or demolition, like installing a mailbox? New York 811 requires advance notice before you break ground, so underground utility owners have time to mark their lines BEFORE the digging begins. Plan ahead, stay safe, and always contact New York 811 before digging!

Did you know that data quality can directly impact damage prevention efforts? The 2023 DIRT Report highlights how improving standardized reporting can help us better understand trends and reduce damages. Learn more about damage prevention and the role of accurate data by visiting: https://dirt.commongroundalliance.com

Whether the ground is frozen or thawed, digging safely is always in season! Don’t forget to contact New York 811 before starting any digging project, no matter the weather.

Did you know? Before 2005, each "call before you dig" service had its own 800 number for utility locating services! In March 2005, the FCC introduced 811 as the universal number, making it easier than ever to “call before you dig.” Now, this simple number, along with online ticket submission options, helps prevent damage to over 20,000,000 miles of underground utilities every year.

No-call excavations are a leading cause of utility damages—but together, we can change that! If you understand the importance of contacting New York 811 before digging, share this message with your friends, family, and even colleagues in the damage prevention community. Safe digging is a shared responsibility, and a simple reminder can make all the difference. Let’s keep our communities safe and connected!

From ground-penetrating radar to state-of-the-art mapping, technology plays a key role in damage prevention. Contact New York 811 online or through our app before you dig, and let advanced tools help keep your project safe! https://newyork-811.com

Every digging project deserves a happy ending. Contact New York 811 before you dig to protect yourself, your neighbors, and your wallet. Safety is always the best chapter!

Today, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
His vision of equality, justice, and unity continues to inspire us all.
“The time is always right to do what is right.”

Do you know what the red flags on your dig site mean?
A) Gas line
B) Water line
C) Electric line
Comment your answer below!