Excavation Safety Guide

Damage to underground utility lines can cause far-reaching consequences, from serious injury and environmental damage to the loss of vital services we depend on every day.


Preventing damage to these facilities is a responsibility shared by all stakeholders, accomplished through various damage prevention measures.


This page provides basic information on safe excavation practices in Tennessee.


It is intended as an educational resource only, so please be advised of the following:


  • This is not a legal reference. You should consult your attorney, if necessary, for advice on interpreting the law.


  • It does not contain the complete text of TCA 65 31 101-120. You can find the full text version of the law here.


  • The information in this booklet is subject to change without notice.


  • We do not have a copyright on the material in this manual and you are encouraged to copy all or part of it as needed. If you would like additional copies, we will be more than happy to provide them to you.


  • About Tennessee 811

    Established in 1983, Tennessee 811 serves as the statewide official one-call center. Tennessee 811 does not mark lines but functions as a communications link between our member utilities and anyone excavating.


    Tennessee’s Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act (TCA 65-31-101) requires everyone who digs to contact Tennessee 811 at least three (3) working days’ notice before starting a project. Tennessee 811 processes the notification of proposed excavation and notifies our member utilities, or their contract locators, to mark their underground facilities prior to the excavation. 


    This free service helps prevent damage incidents which can result in millions of dollars in property damage, the interruption of utility service, personal injuries, and even loss of life.


    Tennessee 811 is a non-profit governed by a Board of Directors.

  • Uniform Color Code

    The uniform color code is used for marking excavation sites and underground facilities in conflict with an excavation. 


    Underground facilities may be marked on the ground in either paint, stakes, or flags.

  • Before You Contact 811

    Safe digging is everyone’s responsibility, but excavators have more responsibilities under the law and higher risk if the proper processes aren’t followed. Submitting a ticket is the first step but it’s not the only step, and sometimes it takes more than just the one call.