Even homeowners must notify Dig Safe if they plan on digging on their property; that was the message nearly 60 contractors heard at a presentation Unitil sponsored at the Courtyard by Marriott in Fitchburg last week.
“Once the warmer weather arrives, it is important for contractors and homeowners to remember that they must notify Dig Safe before they move any earth on public or private property,” said Unitil’s Dan Golden.
Dig Safe notifies the utilities, so they can mark the location of underground gas, phone, cable or electric lines prior to a homeowner or a contractor digging.
Any movement or removal of earth, rock or material is considered excavation under Massachusetts law. There are some exceptions to the law, tilling soil for agricultural purposes or using hand tools for gardening.
Homeowners and contractors need to call Dig Safe at 811 or 888-344-7233 at least 72 business hours in advance, and mark the location they plan to dig with white markers or paint. The local utility companies will mark where their lines are located.
The one exception is that municipalities are not required to protect water, sewer or drainage lines through Dig Safe, so homeowners need to contact city- or town-provided utilities directly.
There is no cost to homeowners or contractors for using Dig Safe. For more information, visit www.digsafe.com
