Every excavation job in Arizona starts with the same free step: getting underground utility lines located and marked. It's the law, and it applies to a homeowner with a shovel as much as to a crew with an excavator.
The basics
- Who: the Arizona Corporation Commission says the requirement applies whether you're a homeowner or an experienced contractor.
- What it's called: Arizona 811. It was Arizona Blue Stake until the name changed in 2014, after the blue wooden stakes used to mark lines.
- Cost: free. Utilities mark their own lines at no charge.
- Penalty: digging before lines are marked can bring a fine of up to $5,000 per violation.
The timeline
- Contact Arizona 811.Call 811 and describe where you'll dig.
- Wait for the marks.Under A.R.S. 40-360.22, utilities respond as promptly as practicable but no later than two working days. Southwest Gas's dig law booklet notes weekends and state holidays don't count.
- Dig only after marking.Excavation can't start until marking is complete or the excavator is told none is needed.
- Watch the clock.Marks are valid for 15 working days. If work will run longer, the excavator notifies the operator at least two working days before they expire.
Large projects
The statute also sets a longer lead time for large projects: the one-call center is notified at least 15 business days or 21 calendar days before the proposed start date.
Lines you added yourself
Think about anything you or a previous owner buried: power to a detached garage, a pool equipment line, irrigation. Ask your contractor how they'll locate lines like these, and whether the 811 marks will cover them.
Sources
- Arizona Corporation Commission, Office of Pipeline Safety: Underground Facilities Law
- Arizona Revised Statutes 40-360.22: Excavations; determining location of underground facilities
- Southwest Gas: Arizona Dig Law booklet (revised August 2017)
Reviewed October 20, 2026. Rules, prices and contacts change, so check the source before relying on it.
Questions and answers
How long does Arizona 811 take to mark lines?
Under A.R.S. 40-360.22, utilities respond no later than two working days, and digging can't start until marking is complete. Southwest Gas notes weekends and holidays don't count.
How long are Arizona 811 marks valid?
Fifteen working days from the date of marking, under A.R.S. 40-360.22(J).
Do homeowners have to call 811 in Arizona?
Yes. The Arizona Corporation Commission says the requirement applies to homeowners and contractors alike, and the service is free.
Get it quoted
Send the form or call and a local excavation contractor will follow up. There's no charge to ask for a quote.
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