[Image: Lousiana One Call]Being aware of underground utilities is an important item to consider in developing a new landscape planting. How many of us have ever thought about the location of underground utilities prior to digging? Many landscape projects involve soil excavation. This brings about the possibility that utility lines could be unknowingly damaged. Prior to soil excavation, call Louisiana One Call at 1-800-272-3020 at least 48 hours in advance (excluding weekends and holidays). Provide the following information:
- Name and telephone number of the excavator
- Name and telephone number of the company
- Date and time work is scheduled to begin
- Specific location address
- Specific description of the work site
- Nearest intersecting roadway to the work site
- Distance and direction of the work site from the nearest intersection
- Advise the one call operator if explosives will be used
Maintain the local request number provided by the one call operator. It is your proof of the call and may be requested by an enforcement agency.
If digging activity comes within 18 inches of a utility line or pipeline, exercise extreme caution. Hand digging is recommended to expose the buried line.
Markings for underground utilities are considered valid as long as they are visible up to 10 calendar days from the “mark by” time. “Mark by” time is provided by the one call operator and excludes holidays and weekends. For larger projects, call in only the work that will be accomplished within a 10-day period. If damage occurs during excavation, notify the utility operator or pipeline company directly. If there is an emergency, take steps to safeguard health and property. Wherever possible, use white paint, stakes or flags to designate the area of the proposed excavation. Please remember that not all utilities participate in the “Louisiana One Call” program. Call nonmember utilities directly to request marking their lines