Call USA North 811 Before You Demolish or Dig in Fresno County

Demolition ends with a hole in the ground more often than people expect: foundations come out, footings are dug up and the lot is graded. Every one of those steps can hit something buried. In California, anyone who plans to excavate is expected to contact the regional notification center, and in Fresno County that is USA North 811. Check the center's current rules for details; this is a general guide.

What 811 does and does not do

A request to 811 prompts member utilities to mark the approximate location of their underground lines. It does not disconnect service to the building you are demolishing, and it does not locate private lines such as a sewer lateral or a buried irrigation or sprinkler feed. Those need separate attention.

How to make a request

• Plan ahead: Notice is typically required at least two working days before digging begins. Ask for current timing when you call.
• Describe the work area: Give the address, nearest cross street and a clear description of where you will excavate, including any areas to be broken out.
• Wait for responses: Utilities respond by marking or reporting no conflict. Do not dig until everyone has responded.
• Respect the marks: Keep paint and flags visible and hand-dig near marked lines when required.

Utility shutoffs are a separate step

Before a structure is demolished, electric, gas, water and sewer service must be disconnected and capped. Each provider has its own request process and lead time. Cities usually want proof of shutoff before a demolition permit is issued, so start these calls early. Ask the provider for written confirmation.

Common problems

• Marks are wiped out by weather or traffic before work starts.
• Private lines are not on any utility's map.
• Ticket expires because work is delayed, and no one renews it.
• Depth varies from what is expected, especially around old lots with past work.

On an older Fresno lot it is common to find abandoned lines from earlier buildings. Treat unexpected pipes and conduits as live until proven otherwise.

Ask your contractor who is responsible for opening the 811 ticket, scheduling disconnects and keeping marks current. Fresno Demolition Co can walk you through it at (714) 333-0178.