Call 811 Before You Dig Deck or Pergola Footings in Texas
You are about to rent an auger and dig eight holes for a pergola on a Saturday morning. Somewhere under that lawn there may be a gas line, a power line or a fiber cable.
Texas law says to notify the 811 center at least 48 hours before excavating, not counting weekends and holidays, and no more than 14 days before. Marking public lines is free, but private lines on your side of the meter are on you.
- Give at least 48 hours, weekends and holidays excluded.
- Do not call more than 14 days early.
- Utility marking is free.
- Private lines are the owner's job.
What the Law Says
Texas Utilities Code chapter 251 sets the window. Notice goes in no earlier than the 14th day and no later than the 48th hour before digging, leaving out Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays. A Saturday notice means digging can start the next Tuesday at 11:59 a.m.
Which Digging It Covers
The statute defines excavating as using powered equipment or explosives to disturb soil 16 inches deep or more. A powered auger for footings fits that. Hand digging is not in the statute, but buried lines do not care which tool hits them.
| Day you give notice | Earliest dig |
|---|---|
| Monday | Wednesday, after 48 hours |
| Thursday | Monday, weekend not counted |
| Saturday | Tuesday at 11:59 a.m. |
What Is Free and What Is Not
The Texas811 FAQ says marking is a free service and utilities have 48 hours to locate. Private lines, like a line to a shed or a yard light, are the owner's job, and private locating has a fee.
A Kyle Exception
The City of Kyle says its own water, wastewater and stormwater lines are not part of Texas 811. Those locates have to be requested from the city.
The Gaps
Most reminders say to call 811 and stop there. They leave out the 14 day limit and the private line gap, which is how a yard light wire gets cut even after the flags are out.
Answers in a Sentence
How far ahead do you call 811 in Texas?
At least 48 hours, not counting weekends and holidays, and no more than 14 days.
Is 811 free in Texas?
Yes, utility marking is free.
Does 811 mark private lines?
No, private lines are the owner's responsibility.
Where We Got This
- Utilities Code Chapter 251, Underground Facility Damage Prevention and Safety, Texas Legislature (Texas Constitution and Statutes)
- Frequently Asked Questions, Texas811
- Building Services and Permits, City of Kyle
Elsewhere on the Site
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