KNOW THE LAW BEFORE YOU DIG CALL 811
What is Excavation?
According to the North Dakota Century Code, excavation means:
Any operation in which earth, rock, or other materials in or below the ground are moved or displaced by hand tools, power equipment, or explosives.
This includes grading, trenching, digging, ditching, dredging, drilling, tunneling, boring, scraping, cable or pipe plowing, and driving.
Steps to Safe Digging
1. White flag the site.
2. Call 811 or file online at ndonecall.com.
3. Wait the required time (see “Waiting Period” to the right).
4. Respect locator marks.
5. Dig with care, hand dig near marks.
6. Work prudently.
Waiting Period
The waiting period begins 48 hours (two business days) after 12:01 a.m. the day following your locate request.
For example: If you submit a request on Monday, your waiting period starts on Wednesday at 12:01 a.m.
The notification center may add a 24-hour extension if needed.
Excavation may not start before the date and time confirmed by the notification center.
How Long Is Your Ticket Valid?
Per ND Century Code: A ticket lasts 21 days. If your project takes longer, renew before you continue.
Excavators must renew the ticket if work continues beyond that timeframe.
