Dig Law

Every state in the United States has enacted some form of dig law, though the specific requirements vary significantly from state to state. Common elements include the requirement to submit a locate request through the 811 system before digging, a defined waiting period for utility operators to mark their facilities, tolerance zone dimensions, mandatory use of non-destructive excavation methods within the tolerance zone, and penalties for violations.

Penalties for violating dig laws range from minor fines to felony charges, depending on the state and the severity of the violation. In most states, an excavator who fails to call 811 and damages a utility is automatically liable for all repair costs, service restoration expenses, and any resulting injuries or property damage. Some states have tiered penalty systems where repeat offenders face escalating fines and potential license revocation.

Hydrovac contractors should maintain current knowledge of dig laws in every state where they operate, as requirements for notification timelines, tolerance zone widths, excavation documentation, and reporting obligations differ. Some states also have specific provisions for emergency excavations, white-lining requirements, and positive response obligations that affect how hydrovac work is planned and performed.