August 11 is 811 Day
St. Johns County Urges Residents to Practice Safe Digging
Planting a tree or installing a fence might seem like a simple home improvement project, but digging without knowing what’s below can result in dangerous and costly damage. Striking buried electric or gas lines can cause power outages, fires, explosions or serious injuries. Even shallow digging can cut telecommunications lines, disrupting internet and phone service.
According to the Common Ground Alliance, nearly 60% of homeowners who damage underground utilities did not contact 811 beforehand to have lines marked. Aug. 11, also known as 811 Day, is a reminder for residents and contractors to take the proper safety steps before breaking ground.
Florida ranks among the top states for construction activity and is the fastest-growing state in the nation. More than 27,000 incidents of underground utility damage were reported statewide last year, many caused by skipping the required 811 notification process.
The St. Johns County Utility Department works alongside Sunshine 811 to protect the County’s water, sewer and reclaimed water infrastructure, as well as to promote public safety. When 811 is contacted, Sunshine 811 notifies member utilities—including St. Johns County Utilities—so underground lines can be located and marked before digging begins.
Residents and contractors can request this free service by calling 811 or visiting Sunshine811.com and clicking “Create a Ticket.” Utility operators then have two full business days to mark or clear lines. Printable 811 Flyer
Six Steps for Safe Digging
- Plan your project – Determine the location, scope, and timeline before contacting 811.
- Contact 811 – Call or submit a ticket online and keep your ticket number for reference.
- Wait for marks – Utilities operators have two business days to respond and mark their lines.
- Confirm responses – Review your ticket for updates from each utility.
- Verify markings – Ensure that flags or paint match the colors and locations listed on your ticket.
- Dig with care – Stay at least 24 inches from marked lines and use caution in the tolerance zone.
If you damage a utility line, contact the utility company immediately and do not attempt to repair it yourself.
To learn more about the St. Johns County Utility Department and its services, visit sjcfl.us/utility. For more information about safe digging and Florida’s 811 process, visit Sunshine811.com.
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