North Dakota Home Projects: Why You Must Call Before You Dig

As the weather warms up, many North Dakota homeowners and contractors itching start home improvement projects.

Whether you're planting trees, installing a fence, or creating a new garden bed, there's one crucial step you can't skip: always call 8-1-1 before you dig. EVERY TIME YOU DIG.

This isn't just a good idea—it's the law and a key measure for safety and responsibility.

Why Call Before You Dig?

1. Avoiding Underground Utilities: Beneath your property lies a network of utility lines—gas, water, electricity, telecommunications, and sewage. Digging without knowing their exact locations can lead to severe consequences, including utility outages, costly repairs, and fines. By calling 8-1-1, you can have these lines marked to avoid them during your project.
2. Ensuring Safety: Striking a utility line can be dangerous. Hitting a gas line could cause a leak or explosion, while damaging an electrical line could result in shocks or electrocution. Marking all underground utilities protects you, your family, and your community.
3. Legal Compliance: In North Dakota, calling ND One Call (8-1-1) before digging is a legal requirement. Failing to do so can result in fines and legal repercussions. Making the call ensures you comply with local regulations.
4. Preventing Service Disruptions: Damaging utility lines can disrupt essential services, causing power outages or water supply interruptions. Such incidents inconvenience many people and lead to significant repair costs that you might be held liable for.
5. Environmental Protection: Digging into sewage or water lines can cause environmental damage, contaminating soil and water sources. Calling 8-1-1 before you dig helps protect the local environment from potential pollution.

How to Call Before You Dig

In the United States, you can dial 8-1-1 to reach your local utility notification center. After providing details about your project, utility companies will send professionals to mark the locations of underground lines with paint or flags, usually within a few days. Once the markings are in place, you can proceed with your project, avoiding the marked areas.

Plan Ahead

Contact ND One Call a few days before starting your project to allow time for utility lines to be marked. This ensures your project can proceed without delays and with the utmost safety.

As you embark on home improvement projects this season, remember that calling before you dig is a small step that makes a big difference. It safeguards your safety, prevents costly damages, ensures legal compliance, and protects your community and the environment.

So, whether you're a homeowner or a contractor, pick up the phone and make the call—It’s easy, and it’s the law. CALL EVERY TIME YOU DIG. 

Additionally, be mindful of overhead power lines to ensure complete safety.