Skip to main content
Locating Flags

Locating Utilities

Call Now, Dig Later

NC 811 provides information you need about the location of underground utility lines that could save you time and keep you safe.

Whether planting a tree, putting up a fence, landscaping or starting an excavation project, Greenville Utilities strongly encourages you to follow the law and call NC 811. This number is for homes and businesses alike. Even minor contact with a pipeline, causing a small dent, chip or crack, can lead to a natural gas emergency. Homeowners & contractors needing to dig can also submit their utility locate requests online, and there’s even an app for that.

It’s a fact: Excavation work, including digging (even in the yard) and plowing, is the most common cause of natural gas emergencies. Before excavation of any kind takes place, North Carolina State law requires you to call NC 811. Please call at least three full working days in advance so all utility lines can be professionally marked prior to digging.

NC 811 operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days of the year.

Your call sets this process in motion:

  1. Utilities with underground lines near the site are notified
  2. Utilities mark underground lines with flags or paint
  3. Color-coded flags or paint mark the area:
    • Red = Electric
    • White = Proposed excavation
    • Pink = Temporary survey marking
    • Green = Sewer
    • Blue = Water
    • Orange = Telephone, television, or other communication line
    • Yellow = Gas, oil, or steam

This one phone call could save you from disrupted service, expensive repairs or personal injury. For more information, visit NC811.org.

Look Up…Look Out!
Find out more about the High Voltage Safety Act and working near overhead power lines.