Money, Code & Licensing
What Is Oregon 811 / Dig Safely?
Definition
Oregon 811 (Dig Safely Oregon) is the no-cost locate-request service that sends utility companies out to mark the location of buried gas, electric, and other lines before any digging — legally required at least two full business days before breaking ground, with marks staying valid for 45 days.
Why it matters for your home
Trenching for a new circuit to a detached garage, setting a heat pump pad, or running a gas line all legally require an 811 locate request first — skipping it risks striking a buried line, which can mean injury, an outage, or a very expensive repair bill.
What to do about it
Call 811 (or file online) at least two full business days before any digging project, even a homeowner DIY one — there is no charge, and utilities do the marking.
This definition is pending licensed-trade technical review. It's sourced from our own published service and guide content, not invented — but hasn't yet been signed off by a licensed HVAC reviewer.
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