Does 811 Cost Money? Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Whether you are a homeowner planning to dig a garden or a contractor working on a construction project, you might have come across the term “811” when researching utility location services. If you are wondering whether using 811 can cost you money, you are not alone. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about 811 and whether it is a free service or if there are any associated costs.

Everything You Need to Know About 811 and Whether It Will Cost You Money

811 is a service that provides the public with an easy and fast way to locate underground utility lines before digging. By calling 811 or submitting a request online, excavators can notify their local utility companies of their intent to dig and provide the location of the excavation site. The utility companies will then send professional locators to mark the potential hazards of the excavation area.

So, is 811 a free service? The short answer is yes, in most cases. In fact, the 811 service is provided free of charge by all states in the United States, and there are no associated costs for homeowners and excavators. However, in some states, there might be certain exceptions, which we will discuss in the next section.

Common Misconceptions About 811: Is It a Free Service or Does It Come with a Cost?

One of the most common misconceptions about 811 is that it always comes with a cost. While this might be true in some cases, it is not always the case. As we mentioned earlier, the good news is that 811 is mostly a free service.

However, there are some exceptions. In a few states, such as Arizona, Idaho, New Mexico, and Wyoming, there might be a fee associated with calling 811. Typically, this fee ranges from $10 to $25, depending on the state and the size of the excavation site. Some utility companies might charge a higher fee for more extensive excavation, such as industrial or commercial projects. Therefore, it is crucial to check with your local 811 service center or the utility company beforehand to see if there are any fees or other associated costs.

Navigating the Costs Associated with 811: What You Need to Be Aware of Before Calling

Before calling 811, it is essential to be aware of the potential costs associated with the service. Although most states provide free locates, there might be other fees related to excavation that you should be aware of. For example, if the locators need to access your property, you might need to pay for the landscaping or driveway restoration afterward. Additionally, if you fail to call 811 before digging, you might be liable for the cost of repairing any damages caused to utility lines or other structures, which can be expensive.

Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of what is required of you before making the call. You might need to provide specific information, such as the address of the excavation site and the date and time of the excavation, to ensure that the locators have enough time to make the necessary arrangements. Moreover, if you are planning a large-scale excavation, it is recommended that you contact the local utility companies in advance to discuss the project and any associated costs.

The Importance of Knowing What Services Are Free and Which Ones Require Payment When Utilizing 811

Understanding what services are free and which ones require payment is essential when utilizing 811. By doing so, you can avoid any surprises when it comes to the costs associated with the service. Moreover, it can help you budget for any necessary expenses and avoid costly mistakes.

For example, if you are working on a small-scale excavation, such as planting a tree or installing a mailbox, you might be able to use the free 811 service provided by your state. However, if you are working on a larger project, such as digging a foundation, you might need to pay for additional services, such as private utility locates, to ensure that all the utility lines are correctly marked. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with your local 811 service center or the utility company to determine what services are covered and which ones require payment.

How to Avoid Surprise Costs When Calling 811 for Underground Utility Location Services

If you want to avoid any surprise costs when calling 811 for underground utility location services, here are some practical tips to follow:

Research the 811 service and the utility companies operating in your area to see if there are any associated fees or costs.
Provide accurate and detailed information about your excavation site to ensure that the locators have enough time to make the necessary arrangements.
Contact the local utility companies in advance to discuss any additional services or fees required for your excavation project.
Be aware of any potential costs associated with damages to utility lines or other structures and take the necessary precautions to avoid them.

Conclusion

811 is a valuable service that can help excavators locate underground utility lines and avoid damages. While the service is mostly free, there might be some associated costs or fees depending on the state or utility company. Therefore, it is crucial to be informed before making the call and understanding what services are covered and which ones require payment. By following the tips we provided in this article, you can avoid any surprises and make the most of the 811 service.