Call Before You Dig

It’s the Law!

Planning to plant a tree, install a fence, or put in a pool? Before you dig, call 811 to stay safe and avoid costly damage.

Indiana state law requires you to contact the Indiana Underground Plant Protection Service, Inc. (Holey Moley) at 811 or (800) 382-5544 at least two working days before starting any digging project. This free service will notify participating utilities, who will then mark their underground service lines so you can dig safely.

Why Calling 811 Matters

Hitting an underground utility line can:

✓   Cause serious injury to you or those nearby.

✓   Disrupt essential services like electricity, water, and internet for your home and your neighbors.

✓   Lead to expensive repair bills that could be charged to you.

How It Works

  • Call 811 or request a ticket online at Indiana 811’s website.
  • Wait for utility companies to mark their underground lines. They will use color-coded flags or paint to indicate the locations of electric, gas, water, and communication lines.
  • Dig safely—stay at least two feet away from marked lines and use hand tools when digging near them.

Safe Digging Tips

  • Plan ahead—811 requests must be made at least two full business days before digging.
  • Respect the marks—flags and paint show the approximate location of underground lines, but they are not exact.
  • Hand dig with care—if you must dig near marked lines, use hand tools to prevent accidental damage.