The 811 Locate Request Process: How Utility Marking Works Before You Dig
Article Summary
Every digging project legally begins with an 811 locate request. This guide walks through the full process — from submitting a ticket to reading the positive response — so your crew can dig safely and stay compliant in every state.
Before any digging project begins, the first step is submitting an 811 locate request. It's not optional — it's law in every state.
Skipping it isn't just risky; it's illegal. Here's how the 811 process works from start to finish, and what your crew needs to do at each step to dig safely.
What is an 811 locate request?
An 811 locate request is the formal notification that tells utility owners you plan to excavate. It's the mandatory first step in any safe digging project, required by law in every state.
The purpose is simple: before a shovel goes into the ground, the utilities running beneath your job site get marked so you know exactly what to avoid.
How do you submit an 811 ticket?
The process starts when an excavator contacts 811 — either online or by phone — to notify utility owners of planned excavation.
The request includes important details, such as:
The location of the work
The scope of the planned excavation
The expected start date
Providing accurate details up front helps locators respond correctly and mark the right area the first time.
What happens after your ticket is created?
Once the ticket is created, it's sent to the utility owners or their contract locators. These are the parties responsible for marking their facilities on your site.
This hand-off is what turns your request into action on the ground. From here, a locator is assigned to visit your site and identify what's buried below.
How does Northern Lights respond to a locate ticket?
Northern Lights is one of those locators — serving excavators across Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and 17 other states.
When your ticket lands with our team, we move quickly. Our locators:
Review the ticket to understand the scope and location
Travel to the site promptly
Use specialized equipment to identify and mark the location of underground utilities
Fast, accurate response is what keeps your project on schedule while keeping the job site safe.
What is a positive response and why does it matter?
After the locate is completed, a positive response is submitted. This response indicates whether the area has been marked, is clear, or if additional action is needed.
It's critical for excavators to wait the required time before beginning work, and to review all markings once they're in place. The ticket response will tell you exactly what to expect before you start digging.
Why does the 811 process matter?
The 811 process exists to protect people, infrastructure, and project timelines. When every step is followed, it significantly reduces the risk of utility damage and keeps job sites safe for everyone.
Following the process isn't just about compliance — it's about protecting your crew, the community, and your bottom line. For excavation in the Northern Lights service area, call 811 to start your ticket, and our team will respond promptly to get your project moving safely.
"The 811 process exists to protect people, infrastructure, and project timelines. When every step is followed, it keeps job sites safe for everyone."
— Samantha Olinger Manager of Strategic Projects, Communications & Business Development
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 811 and why do I need to call it before digging?
811 is the national "call before you dig" system. Contacting 811 notifies utility owners of your planned excavation so they can mark underground facilities. It is required by law in every state before any digging project begins.
Is calling 811 required by law?
Yes. Submitting an 811 locate request before excavation is mandatory in every state. It is not optional.
How do I submit an 811 locate request?
You can contact 811 online or by phone. Your request should include the location of the work, the scope of the planned excavation, and the expected start date.
What is a positive response in the 811 process?
A positive response is submitted after the locate is completed. It indicates whether the area has been marked, is clear, or requires additional action. Always review it before beginning work.
How long do I have to wait after calling 811 before I can dig?
You must wait the required time specified by your state and the ticket response before beginning work, and review all markings once they are in place. The ticket response tells you what to expect.
Does Northern Lights handle 811 locate requests?
Yes. Northern Lights is a contract locator serving excavators across Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and 17 other states. When a ticket reaches the team, they review it, travel to the site, and mark underground utilities with specialized equipment.
