How It Works
Purpose of the One-Call Board of Texas
The purpose of the One-Call Board of Texas (OCB) is to establish and operate a “one-call” excavation notification system designed to provide excavators with the capability of making only “one-call” prior to excavation, whereby all utility companies (except water and sewer) with underground lines in the area receive notice of the planned excavation.
Excavators, Call Before You Dig
With some exceptions, excavators planning to dig 16 inches or deeper using mechanical equipment are required to call the statewide number “811” or contact directly Texas 811 at http://www.texas811.org”. Excavators must call no sooner than 14 days nor less than two working days (48 hours excluding weekends and holidays) before beginning the excavating.
Homeowners and DIYers
Striking an underground utility line can do more than disrupt services; it poses serious safety risks to you, your family, and your neighbors.
Under Texas law, you or your contractor must notify 811 at least two business days before starting any digging project, not counting weekends or holidays—even for work in your own yard.
Utility Companies Send Locators
The 811 service is completely FREE, funded by utility companies to protect their lines and ensure the safety of everyone nearby.
Once notified, the utility companies have two working days to send their personnel or contract locators to the excavation site to mark the approximate location of their underground facilities.
The Texas One-Call law is found in the Utilities Code, Chapter 251.
How the System Works
01
Excavator calls one number (either 811 or directly to Texas 811 ) and gives details of the planned excavation.
02
The Notification Center determines what potential conflicts exist and notifies their appropriate member Facility Operators.
03
The Facility Operator then has the opportunity (two working days) to send personnel to site to locate and mark its underground lines or notify Excavator of intent to not locate.
