Why 811 Won’t Mark Private Utility Lines—are your spring projects covered?

Did you know that 811 doesn’t mark private utility lines?

Many homeowners assume that calling 811 before digging is enough to locate all underground utilities—but that’s not the case. If you’re installing a fence, pool, or doing any excavation on your property, you may still need a private utility locator.

Here’s why 811 doesn’t cover private utilities and how Eagle Eye Utility Locating can help you avoid costly damage.

What Does 811 Mark—And What’s Left Out?

When you call 811, they send out utility companies to mark public utility lines—those owned by gas, electric, water, and telecom companies. These typically run from the street to your meter. However, any utilities beyond the meter—such as lines running to outbuildings, pools, irrigation systems, or septic tanks—are considered private utilities and will NOT be marked.

Private utilities may include:

✅ Gas lines to outdoor grills, garages, or pool heaters

✅ Electrical lines to sheds, barns, or landscape lighting

✅ Water or sewer lines to guest houses or septic tanks

✅ Irrigation and sprinkler system pipes

✅ Internet, fiber optic, and security system cables

How to Know If You Need a Private Utility Locator

Many homeowners only realize they need a private utility locating service after 811 has come and gone, leaving crucial underground lines unmarked.

Before you dig, ask yourself:

• Does my property have an outdoor gas line, electrical connection, or water system?

• Will I be digging anywhere beyond my home's main meter connections?

• Am I installing a fence, deck, pool, or doing any major landscaping?

• Have I already called 811 and noticed missing markings in my yard?

If you answered yes to any of these, hiring a private utility locator can prevent costly repairs and serious safety hazards.

Why Choose Eagle Eye Utility Locating?

At Eagle Eye Utility Locating, we specialize in finding hidden private utility lines before you start digging. Here’s what sets us apart:

✔ Advanced Locating Technology – We use state-of-the-art tools to find underground utilities with pinpoint accuracy.

✔ Residential & Commercial Services – Whether you’re a homeowner or contractor, we’ve got you covered.

✔ Prevent Damage & Save Money – Avoid costly repairs, fines, and project delays.

✔ Quick & Reliable Service – Fast response times to keep your project on schedule.

FAQs About Private Utility Locating

Q: Can’t I just dig carefully if I know roughly where my utilities are?

A: Even a shallow dig can puncture a gas or electrical line, causing major hazards.

Always locate before you dig!

Q: How much does private utility locating cost?

A: The cost depends on your property size and number of utilities, but it’s far cheaper than repairing a damaged gas or electric line!

Q: How long does it take to locate private utilities?

A: Most jobs can be completed within a under hour, depending on complexity. Contact us for a quote!

Schedule Your Private Utility Locate Today!

Don’t take chances with underground utilities—know before you dig.

Contact Eagle Eye Utility Locating today for expert private utility locating services.

📞 Call us at 612-512-3818

📩 Email us at contact@eagleeyeutilitylocating.com

Stay safe and protect your property—schedule your locate today!