Safety Call Before You Dig
Safety first! Call 811 before you dig to prevent dangerous and costly mistakes.
Know What’s Below
Natural gas services rely on a comprehensive, safe, and stable underground pipeline system to deliver natural gas to customers. While natural gas distribution incidents are rare, when they do occur, they are usually caused by damage to natural gas lines during construction and excavation activities.
Hitting a buried line can interrupt utility service, create expensive repair costs, or cause serious injuries or death. Whether you’re planting a new tree, installing a new fence, or completing a large-scale project, always contact the Call Before You Dig program by calling 811.
Before You Dig
Call 811
Homeowners and contractors are required by law to call 811 at least two working days before digging in Louisiana and at least three working days before digging in Mississippi.
When you call 811, you will be connected to a representative who will ask you about the details and location of your digging project.
Wait for Markings
Once you’ve called 811, it’s time to wait! Utility companies have a few days to respond to your request by sending a technician to mark the approximate location of buried utilities—response times vary by state.
Get Ready to Dig
Confirm all utilities have responded to your request before rolling up your sleeves and preparing to dig. Always dig around the marks and not on them. Some utility lines are at shallow depths and hitting them can cause expensive and dangerous damage.
Understanding Utility Markings
Utility companies will mark the location of their underground lines by using standard color codes.
Electric
Gas, Oil, or Steam
Communications
Potable Water
Sewers or Drains
Temporary Survey Marks
Water, Irrigation, or Slurry
Proposed Excavation
When to Call 811
Small Projects
Utilities can be buried inches below your property’s surface. Small projects, like landscaping, installing mailboxes or firepits, or produce gardens can cause damage to underground utilities.
When in doubt, call 811 before you break the shovel out.
Previously Marked Areas
Even if you’ve dug in the same area before, you must call 811. Erosion, root systems, and utility maintenance and repair can cause lines to move over time.
Call 811 each and every time you dig.
Large Projects
Contact your landscaper or contractor to make sure they call 811 prior to any work. If they haven’t called 811, or don’t plan to call 811, make sure to call at least two days before they start digging.
Never start work before someone contacts 811.
The safety of our customers, employees, and communities is our top priority. If you suspect any damage to your natural gas pipes, meter, or excess flow valves, or if you suspect a natural gas leak, call 1-833-DELTA-99 (1-833-335-8299) and 911 immediately.