811 Background
811 is a new federally mandated FCC designated N-11 number
The new 811 number is a national “Call Before You Dig” phone number designated by the FCC to eliminate the confusion of multiple “Call Before You Dig” numbers and help save lives by minimizing damages to underground utilities. One easy phone call to 811 quickly begins the process of getting underground utility lines marked. Local One Call Center personnel will then notify affected utility companies, who will send crews to mark underground lines for free.
811 will help save lives and protect infrastructure
Knowing where underground utility lines are buried before each digging project begins helps prevent injury, expense and penalties. The depth of utility lines may vary and multiple utility lines may exist in one area. Simple digging jobs can damage utility lines and can disrupt vital services to an entire neighborhood, harm diggers, and result in expensive fines and repair costs. Marked lines show diggers where approximate underground lines are buried and help prevent undesired consequences.
The 811 is for diggers – professional excavators and do-it-yourself homeowners
A recent national survey revealed that roughly half of Americans are “active diggers” who have done (or are planning to do) some type of digging project at home, yet only
a third have called or will call to get their utility lines marked. 811 campaign efforts will increase awareness about the new number, demonstrate relevance, and create
positive behavioral changes among those most likely to dig through outreach by CGA member organizations and national launch partners.