Media Inquiries:
Jaime Gillen
330-651-4388
jaimeg@oups.org
www.OHIO811.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OHIO’S SAFE DIGGING LAWS CHANGE ON JUNE 9:

OHIO811 OUTLINES NEW REQUIREMENTS FOR SAFE DIGGING IN OHIO

NORTH JACKSON, OHIO – JUNE 1, 2026 – OHIO811, Ohio’s designated call-before-you-dig notification center, is alerting excavators, utility owners, contractors, and homeowners across the state to prepare for important changes to Ohio’s excavation safety laws taking effect June 9, 2026.

OHIO811 is leading statewide education efforts on House Bill 227 (HB 227), the bipartisan legislation signed by Governor Mike DeWine that strengthens excavation requirements and enhances protection of Ohio’s underground utility infrastructure.

Sponsored by Representatives Monica Robb Blasdel and Mark Johnson, HB 227 passed unanimously in both the House and Senate. The law is the result of extensive industry collaboration through the Ohio Underground Damage Prevention Coalition (OUDPC), where OHIO811 serves as Secretary.

Key Changes Include:

• Call Before You Dig (ORC 3781.28):
  • Notify OHIO811 at least 2 working days before digging, excluding the day of notice (updates prior 48-hour window).
  • Start digging within 16 calendar days of the 811 notice (updates prior ‘10 working days).
• Damage Reporting (ORC 3781.271): All damages to underground utilities must be reported to OHIO811.
• Mandatory Training (ORC 3781.261): All individuals involved in the 811 process must complete required training and documented by employer.

For complete details, resources, and mandatory training, visit: www.OHIO811.org/HB227

“House Bill 227 strengthens accountability in our damage prevention laws, providing critical support for Ohio’s growing excavation demands while reducing risks to public safety, underground infrastructure, and the environment,” said Roger Lipscomb, President/Executive Director, OHIO811. “Now more than ever, it’s essential to always notify OHIO811 before you dig — it’s free, easy, and protects us all.”

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