Call Before You Dig

Homeowners throughout Minnesota are responsible for notifying Gopher State One Call (GSOC) of their proposed excavations so that GSOC can notify participating facility operators with underground facilities in proximity to the proposed excavation site. Homeowners can communicate with Gopher State One Call in two different methods: visit the GSOC website and submit dig information; or by calling 811 and speaking to a GSOC representative.

General Process

1. Mark the digging area with white stakes or white spray paint.
2. Call GSOC 2 full business days before digging to submit a locate ticket. You may contact GSOC up to 14 calendar days prior to commencing excavation to provide facility operators additional time to mark the area of proposed excavation. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7 am to 5 pm.
3. If you hire a professional excavator, they are responsible for contacting GSOC.
4. When you submit a locate ticket to GSOC, you will be given a ticket number and a list of facility operators with underground facilities in proximity to your excavation site. It is recommended that you write down your ticket number and the facility operators/contract locators so you are able to track which facility owners have responded to your one-call request.
5. Check the status of your ticket before you dig. GSOC recommends you use Search and Status to check the status of your ticket.
6. Hand dig carefully within 2 feet either side of the utility markings.
7. Report any and all damages to the affected utility company immediately. All damages, including nicks in cables and dents in steel, can and will eventually cause the facility to fail.