What Are Private Utilities?
Besides residential homes, other areas where private utility lines are common include closed or gated communities, apartment complexes, schools/universities, hospitals, business/industrial areas, government facilities, etc. Private utilities may include but are not limited to:
- Parking lot or site lights
- Fire mains
- Natural gas, or propane lines to pool heaters, BBQs or secondary buildings
- Nitrogen, oxygen, or other industrial gas lines
- Sewer laterals
- Septic tanks and systems
- Fuel tanks and systems
- Water tanks as systems
- Chilled water lines
- Steam lines
- Electrical, communication, fire alarm, and special systems lines connecting secondary buildings
- Cellular sites
- Storm, roof, or industrial drains
- Irrigation systems
What is 811?
As defined on their website, www.call811.com, “811 is the federally designated call before you dig number that helps homeowners and professionals avoid damage to vital utility lines”. Such utility lines can include: underground water lines, electrical or power lines and natural gas lines. Calling 8-1-1 will prompt the locate crews to come out and locate public utilities only.
Understanding Public vs. Private Underground Utilities:
A Guide for Property Owners
Navigating the complex world of underground utilities can be challenging. Here's a simple breakdown: Public utility lines, such as water, gas, and electricity, are typically owned and maintained by utility companies. These public lines extend up to the meter of your property. Beyond this point, including all lines within your property boundaries like those in your backyard or leading to your building, are classified as private utilities. As a property owner, you are responsible for their maintenance and safety.
When do you need a Private Utility Locator?
Short answer is: Any time you are getting ready to dig on a commercial or residential property.
Before initiating any digging, trenching, or renovation activities, it's crucial to identify these underground utilities accurately. To ensure comprehensive safety and avoid costly damages, contact both 811 for public utility marking and a specialized private locator service like Safe Site Utility Locating Services. By taking these steps, you contribute to the safety of your project, prevent potential damage, and avoid the risks associated with unintentionally striking an underground utility line, which can have severe consequences.
Stay informed, stay safe, and ensure the success of your construction or renovation projects by accurately identifying underground utilities.
Here is an illustration, that further clarifies what that means:
