Today is recognized as 811 Day, highlighting the importance of using Iowa One Call.
Jefferson Public Works Director Dave Morlan says Iowa law requires anyone wanting to dig on their property to call 811 before they start digging so that all underground utilities can be marked. Notification must be submitted at least 48-hours prior to any digging. Utility agencies including electrical, natural gas, communications, water, sewer and all others are required to mark their lines where the project will take place.
Morlan points out that if you do not call 811 or go online to submit a request and hit strike a utility line, repair or replacement cost will be assessed to the landowner. According to the Iowa Attorney General’s office, under the “Iowa One Call Law”, they can impose $10,000 for each violation related to natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines, up to a maximum of $500,000. For those relating to other underground facility, it is up to $1,000 for each violation for each day it continues, up to a maximum of $20,000.
Morlan recommends to always call 811 just to be on the safe side before you dig. Click the link before to make a request.