LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Springtime in Arkansas is the perfect season for planting— but hang on a minute before you grab that shovel. You'll need to call 811 if you're planning on digging in your yard to plant a tree or even a garden.
"You definitely have to worry about it, it is a requirement," said Jamie Britton, damage investigation coordinator for Summit Utilities. "On any projects or planned projects such as installing a deck, a swimming pool, or even a mailbox, you are required to call Arkansas 811."
811 is the national "Call Before You Dig" phone number meant to ensure that any buried utilities are marked with paint or flags so that you don’t accidentally dig into an underground utility line.
"You are required by law to mark your proposed site in white. That will assist all of the company facilities to come out there and mark where their lines are," she explained.
It's extremely important to take these measures before digging, otherwise, you can risk cutting a line— and then you're in real trouble.
"You could strike a line and it could be harmful to you and your neighbor. Of course, there is some cost involved. Also, there can be some penalties and fines that you can be obligated to pay," Britton described.
When you call, a representative from your state’s 811 center will ask a few questions about the location and details of your digging project.
Then, you'll receive a ticket number and instructions for how much time utilities have to respond to your request. Once they confirm you're ready to go, you can start digging!
Be sure to dig carefully around the marks, not on them since some utility lines may be buried at a shallow depth.