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What to Know Before You Dig

What do I need to make a locate request?
What happens next? How do I dig safely?

Residential Request Check Ticket Status 

How to Request a Utility Locate: Step by Step

What’s your project? Shallow or deep, big or small—contact 811 before you start.

1

Contact 811

Getting Started is simple and quick.

Have your project details handy.

  • Physical address where you’ll be digging

  • Your email address for confirmation of your ticket and communications

  • Closest intersecting street to the address

  • How locators can access the property

  • Type of digging you are doing

  • Location on the property where you’ll dig

Then, submit your request online or call 811.
Start Your Residential Locate Request 

It’s Free.

There is no charge for public utility locates. 

Do you have private utilities on your property?

If so, contact a private locate company after you receive confirmation of your public locate utility ticket from Colorado 811. 

Learn More About Private Utility Lines
2

Wait 3 Days

Utility company locators will mark your lines within 3 business days.

You’ll know the locate is complete when:

  • Utility companies update your online ticket with a Positive Response status message 

  • You see color-coded marks—flags, painted lines, or both

Track your request online.
Check Ticket Status 
Provide Open Access

During the 3-day period after you get your email confirmation, be sure the area to be marked is completely accessible to locate crews.

  • No locked gates

  • No animals

3

Respect the Utility Line Marks

Underground public utility lines will be identified by paint, flags, or both.

Be sure marks remain visible for the full duration of your project. They are there to protect you, your property, and your neighbors.

Dig Safe colors: What do they mean?

Utility locators marks lines with paint, flags, or both using a standard color code system created by the American Public Works Association (APWA).

Start Your Residential Locate Request 
4

Follow These Tips to Dig Safely

Always use extreme care when digging near underground utilities.
Be aware of the Tolerance Zone.

The area within 18 inches of utility marks in every direction is called the tolerance zone. In this zone, dig only by hand, if at all. For more information on the Tolerance Zone visit this page.

Remember: The depth of utilities varies.

Underground utilities, pipes, or cables are buried at different depths depending on the location and type of utility. Over time, depth can change because of erosion or leveling. 

You’ll see an indication of depth only if the utility locator actually knows that information. 

Why Contact 811?   It’s the Law.

Don’t put yourself at risk. If you don’t call you could face: 

  • Injury, in some cases, fatal

  • Expensive property and environmental damage

  • Natural gas explosion or fire 

  • Disrupting essential utility service to you and your community

  • Job delays

  • Legal consequences 

Still have questions?

We're here to help.

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Additional Resources

Homeowner Brochure

Developed specifically for residential property owners, this informative brochure equips homeowners with essential guidance on safe excavation practices and outlines the requirements necessary to comply with Colorado state law. It provides clear instructions and practical tips to help protect both your property and underground utilities during any digging project.

Download 

Homeowner Flyer

This flyer gives homeowners the key information needed to dig safely and follow Colorado state law. Learn simple steps to protect your property and underground utilities before starting any digging project.

Download 
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