Who To Call Before Digging: What You Need to Know About VA 811 (Miss Utility)

There you are: You have all your tools ready. Your friends just called and said they’ll be over in a minute to help with your weekend yard project. You start digging — only to be met with rushing water and a project that will have to wait for another day.But did you know all of this trouble could have been avoided with a simple, free call to VA 811? Also known as Señorita Utilidad, this free notification service ensures public utility lines are properly marked before you start. It should always be the first (and most important) step before you dig. However, there’s a catch: Many people don’t realize that private lines are not included in the service.

What Is 811?

What is 811 used for? VA 811 is Virginia’s “Call Before You Dig” program. It helps prevent damage to underground utilities by notifying service providers — like the Albemarle County Service Authority — when someone plans to dig. When you call VA 811 or make an online request, utility companies will visit the site to mark public lines using colored paint or flags, typically within three business days.

Knowing what number to call before digging keeps workers safe and services uninterrupted, and it’s required by law. Digging without knowing what’s below can have serious consequences. You might hit a water main, causing flooding in your yard or your neighbor’s. You could rupture a sewer line, resulting in wastewater spills and environmental contamination. Or you might damage other underground utilities, creating safety hazards and costly service interruptions.

Does 811 Cost Money?

You might wonder, is 811 free? The answer is yes. Calling VA 811 or submitting an online request doesn’t cost a thing. The service is provided at no charge to help protect people, property, and essential public utilities. There’s no reason to skip this step. It’s easy, free, and required before you dig.

Public vs. Private Utility Lines

You may be asking: How can I locate water lines underground?

Understanding the difference between public and private lines is key to knowing what VA 811 will — and won’t — mark. Public lines are utility-owned and maintained. These will be marked by ACSA or another utility provider. Private lines, however, belong to the property owner and are not marked by VA 811.

Not sure what’s considered private? If the line was installed to serve your property only and runs beyond the meter or main connection point, it’s likely a private line. These lines often run underground, even if you’re not aware of them.

Examples of private lines include:
💧 Water lines between your meter and your home
💧 Sewer laterals from your home to the main line
💧 Irrigation systems and invisible fences

If your project stands the chance of impacting private lines, it’s your responsibility to hire a private utility locator to have them marked.

Not sure where to start? Many plumbing contractors or underground utility specialists offer this service. You can also search online for “private utility locating near me” or ask your contractor or home inspector for recommendations. Private utility locating services are typically fast, affordable, and can help you avoid serious disruptions and repair bills.

Why VA 811 Matters

In Virginia, knowing who to call before you dig isn’t just a good idea. It’s the law. Property owners and contractors who fail to notify VA 811 could be held liable for damages. Damaging a utility line can lead to service outages, expensive repairs, and even safety hazards for your neighbors and local crews.

Making the call protects more than your yard. It protects your wallet, your community, and your peace of mind.

So, what’s the number to call before you dig? It’s simple: 811. 

Planning a Project? Here’s What to Do.

✅Contact VA 811 — What number do you call before you dig? It’s easy: Just call 811 or go to va811.com.

✅Wait for the marks — Give utilities three business days to respond.

✅Dig carefully — Hand dig within 24 inches of marked lines.

✅Identify private lines — Hire a private utility locating service if needed.

To learn more about how the program works in Albemarle County, visit ACSA’s Miss Utility page.