IMPORTANT NOTICE:

Tennessee 811's notification buffer was reduced October 1, 2026.

Learn what this means for ticket notifications.

Locate Requests: 811 or (800) 351-1111
Within Tennessee 811
Anywhere (800) 351-1111

  • Having trouble contacting us by phone?

    If you dialed 811 and you weren't connected to our call center, try dialing +1 (800) 351-1111 instead. If the 800 number doesn't work, you can also try dialing +1 (615) 367-1110. If you can't successfully reach our call center after dialing those numbers, we may be experiencing technical difficulties. In an emergency, you can reach our on-call staff member by dialing +1 (615) 871-7400.

FAQs

Have a question? We’re here to help.

Multiple small, colored flags mark utility lines in a grassy area near a street.

Why are there flags and paint marks in my yard?

What do the colors mean and who put them there?

Learn More

  • How can I look up my ticket?

    Our Ticket Search allows you to view a ticket and check for responses.


    • No login is needed.
    • Type in the ticket number OR use any of the Advanced Options.

  • What if I don't see any markings?

    You can view responses from our member utilites using our Ticket Search.


    • No login is needed.
    • Type in the ticket number OR use the Advanced Options.

    If you have questions about the responses or if your ticket is valid and you are missing responses, please call 811 or (800) 351-1111


    You can learn more about Positive Response here.

  • How do I renew or update my ticket?

    Tickets are valid for fifteen (15) calendar days after the legal start date requested on the Tennessee 811 ticket.


    If your excavation will not be completed within fifteen (15) calendar days, contact 811 three (3) working days prior to the expiration of your ticket to request an update to ensure that your ticket does not expire during excavation.


    By phone: Call 811 or (800) 351-1111


    Once your excavation is complete, do not continue to update the ticket.

  • Can I place a ticket (locate request) online?

    Yes! Below are 2 options:


    1) Homeowner Ticket- This entry method is for homeowners or residents that want to enter locates (tickets) for their property.  It does not require creating an account to submit a request and is wizard-driven for ease of use.


    2) E-Ticket- This entry method is for excavators who want to enter multiple locates (tickets). Users are required to create an account.

  • How much notice do I need to give?

    A normal locate request requires at least three (3) working days' notice. That’s 72 hours excluding weekends and holidays.


    You can provide as much as ten (10) working days' notice when you know that your schedule is a little more flexible – we call this “postdating” a ticket. Because of the high volume of tickets each day, postdating your ticket and giving more than three days’ notice may mean that you can better rely on the start date of your ticket. 


    Whether you give three days or ten working days’ notice, you’ll be able to keep up with the status of your locates through Positive Response.

  • How do I correct my ticket?

    If you notice any incorrect information on your ticket, please call 811 or (800) 351-1111 as soon as possible. 

View more FAQs.

Need additional help?

Please use the form below.

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