Notifying OHIO811 before digging is a free public safety service and it’s the law.
NORTH JACKSON, OHIO – JULY 28, 2026 – With August 11 just around the corner, OHIO811 is joining states across the country to spotlight National 8-1-1 Day and deliver a timely public safety reminder: always “Call Before You Dig.”
Notifying OHIO811 is a free public safety service that protects lives, property, and the vital utility services we all rely on. Even small digging projects can unintentionally damage buried utilities. That’s why Ohio law requires anyone disturbing the soil, whether a homeowner, DIYer, or professional excavator, to contact OHIO811 first.
“Every time the dirt is moved, there is potential to damage the thousands of miles of buried utilities beneath our feet, such as gas, electric, communications, water, and sewer,” said Jaime Gillen, Director of Public Relations and Communications at OHIO811. “Notifying OHIO811 before you dig is a simple, free step that protects our communities and the essential utility services we all rely on.”
When to Call
Contact OHIO811 before any project that disturbs the soil, including planting trees or gardens, landscaping, installing a mailbox, fence, or basketball hoop, pool installation, deck building, or larger excavation work.
How It Works
Under Ohio law, excavators must notify OHIO811 at least two working days (excluding weekends, holidays, and the day of the notification) before digging begins. This gives utility owners time to identify and mark their buried lines with paint, stakes, or flags.
Easy Ways to Notify
Dial 8-1-1, Visit www.OHIO811.org, Use the free OHIO811 mobile app For more information on safe digging practices, to report a damage, or to schedule a free
safety presentation for your school, business, or community group, visit www.OHIO811.org.
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Press Contact:
Jaime Gillen
Director of Public Relations & Communications
OHIO811
jaimeg@oups.org
330-651-4388
For over 50 years, Ohio Utilities Protection Service, dba OHIO811, has served as the communications link between those who have a need to excavate in Ohio and those who own, operate, or maintain the vital public utilities buried in the ground.
