Between structures
Electric, water, and communications lines may run from a primary building to a garage, shed, or other structure.
811 vs. private locating
811 Doesn't Mark Everything.
The 811 process coordinates markings for participating utility owners. Property-owned electric, water, sewer, propane, irrigation, communications, and other private lines may require a separate locate.
The central difference
Utility ownership often determines what gets marked.
The 811 notification process coordinates with participating utility owners around a planned excavation. Privately installed infrastructure on the same property can fall outside those markings.
Service points often mark the transition between utility-owned and property-owned infrastructure. Water, sewer, electric, and communications ownership can differ by provider and property, which is why the project area and known service points matter.
Planning to excavate? Complete required 811 notification before digging and follow the instructions provided for your project. Private utility locating complements that process.
Why private locating matters
See How Ownership Changes the Picture.
Compare public and private routes on one property.
Use the controls to compare utility-owned routes with property-owned services and extensions. The point where ownership changes can vary by utility, provider, and property.
Utility colors
ElectricCommunicationsWaterSewerGasIrrigation
Ownership / locate type
Public Utility-owned main or service
Private Property-owned service or extension
OTHER SUBSURFACE FINDINGS
GPR Anomalies Distinct radar responses for further interpretation
Follow each utility by color. Solid lines are public; dashed lines are private services or extensions on the property.
01
water · public
Public water and sewer mains
Utility-owned water and sewer mains commonly run in or near the public right-of-way. Their color-coded routes remain separate in the street corridor.
Planning to excavate? Required 811 notification should still be completed before digging. Our services complement the 811 process and help identify private underground utilities that may not be included in standard markings. Utility ownership and marking responsibilities vary by property and provider; this illustration is for general educational purposes.
Plan with a clearer picture
Not sure what's underground on your property?
We can help identify private underground utilities before excavation begins.
Common private examples
Look beyond the primary service connection.
Outdoor systems
Irrigation, landscape lighting, propane, and similar systems may be installed and controlled by the property owner.
Commercial sites
Private infrastructure may connect equipment, buildings, signage, lighting, or operational areas within the property.