Iowa One Call
What is the Process for Safe Digging?
Don't assume you know what is below! If you have a project that requires digging, your first step is to contact Iowa One Call. You can call 811 or 1.800.292.8989. Or you can also file a locate request online by clicking below.
3. Facility Operators mark dig site or advise if they are clear.
2. Iowa One Call processes and submits locate requests to facility operators.
1. Homeowner Files Locate Request
4. Homeowner digs with care, avoiding damages.
What is 811?
811 is a new federally-mandated N-11 number designated by the FCC to consolidate all local "Call before you Dig" numbers and help save lives by minimizing damages to underground utilities. One easy phone call to 811 quickly and easily begins the process of getting underground utility lines marked. Local One Call Center personnel will then notify affected utility companies, who will continue to mark underground lines for free.
I'm Just A Homeowner, Not a Contractor - is 811 for me?
Calling 811 is for professional excavators and do-it-yourself homeowners. A recent national survey revealed that roughly half of Americans are "active diggers" who have done (or are planning to do) some type of digging project at home. Whether you are a professional excavator an avid DIY-er, you need to call 811 before every dig every time.
Why should I call 811 Before Every Dig
Calling 811 will help save lives and protect infrastructure. Knowing where underground utility lines are buried before each digging project begins helps protect you from injury, expense and penalties. The depth of utility lines varies and there may be multiple utility lines in the same area. Even simple digging projects can damage utility lines an can disrupt vital services to an entire neighborhood, harm diggers, and potentially result in expensive fines and repair costs. Marked lines show diggers the approximate location of underground lines and help prevent undesired consequences.
