Natural Gas Damage Prevention Awareness - Call 811 Before You Dig

The greatest risk to underground pipelines is accidental damage during excavations. To protect our natural gas pipelines and other underground facilities, it is critical that people call 811 prior to ANY excavation related activities on public and private property. The law requires that ALL excavators notify the local one-call Miss Utility system by dialing 811 or 800-552-7001 before digging.

The one-call center will contact the owners of the underground facilities and pipelines in the immediate area of digging so that they can mark the location of their facilities prior to excavation.

Excavators are required to allow time for utilities to mark their facilities and are required to take certain precautions when working in the immediate area of underground facilities.

The use of mechanized equipment is prohibited within two feet of either side of any utility.

The one-call center can provide the specific details of what is required. Failure to comply with this law can jeopardize public safety, and can result in costly damages and substantial fines. Even if you cause what seems to be minor damage to a pipeline or gas facility (e.g., gas meters), notify the City of Richmond DPU immediately at 804-646-4646. A gouge, scrape, dent, or crease to the pipe or its coating may cause a future leak or failure. It is imperative that the pipeline owners inspect and repair any damage.