Call Arizona 811 Before You Demolish or Dig

Demolition and site clearing often involve digging, and what is under the ground is not always obvious. Arizona 811, also known as Arizona Blue Stake, is the free service that notifies utility owners so they can mark their underground lines before excavation begins. Hitting a gas, electric, water, sewer or communications line can be dangerous, interrupt service to a neighborhood and create costly repair bills.

When to call

Arizona requires notification before excavation, and the standard guidance is to request locates at least two full working days before you dig. Check the current rules and the request process with Arizona 811 so you build the right lead time into your schedule.

What locates do and do not cover

• They mark: Underground lines belonging to participating utility owners, using paint or flags that show approximate location.
• They do not mark: Private lines on your property, such as irrigation lines, pool plumbing, private gas to a barbecue or detached building, or private sewer laterals. A private locator can help.
• They are approximate: Excavation near marked lines should be done carefully, often by hand, within the tolerance zone the rules describe.

Locates are not the same as disconnects

A locate tells you where lines are. It does not shut off service to the building you are demolishing. Electric, gas, water and sewer service must usually be disconnected and capped through each provider before the structure comes down, and the City may ask for proof of that when you apply for a demolition permit.

Plan around it

• Request locates early and note the ticket number.
• Wait until all utilities have responded before digging.
• Re-request if the work is delayed or markings are erased.
• Tell your contractor about private lines such as irrigation and pool plumbing.

Mesa Demolition Co builds locates and disconnects into every schedule. Call (714) 333-0178 to plan yours.