In Arizona, anyone who digs, from a homeowner planting a tree to a crew trenching for a gas line, has to get underground utilities located first. It's free, and skipping it is expensive.
What the law says
- The Arizona Corporation Commission says the requirement applies whether you're a homeowner or an experienced contractor.
- The service is Arizona 811, known as Arizona Blue Stake until 2014. Utilities mark their lines at no charge.
- Excavating before lines are marked can bring a fine of up to $5,000 per violation.
Timing
| Step | Rule |
|---|---|
| Utilities respond | As promptly as practicable, no later than two working days (A.R.S. 40-360.22) |
| When digging can start | Only after marking is complete, or the excavator is told none is needed |
| How long marks last | 15 working days from marking |
| Longer jobs | Notify the operator at least two working days before marks expire |
| Large projects | Notify the one-call center at least 15 business days or 21 calendar days ahead |
On a Scottsdale job
- Put the 811 request in before the dig is scheduled, not the morning of.
- If rock work or a pool dig will run more than three weeks, plan for the marks to be refreshed.
- Ask your contractor how they'll find anything that was buried privately, like power to a casita or a gas line to a fire pit.
Sources
- Arizona Corporation Commission, Office of Pipeline Safety: Underground Facilities Law
- Arizona Revised Statutes 40-360.22: Excavations; determining location of underground facilities
Reviewed October 20, 2026. Rules, prices and contacts change, so check the source before relying on it.
Questions and answers
How long do Arizona 811 marks last?
Fifteen working days from the date of marking, under A.R.S. 40-360.22(J).
Is there a fine for digging without calling 811 in Arizona?
The Arizona Corporation Commission says digging before lines are marked can bring a fine of up to $5,000 per violation.
Get it quoted
Call or use the form. A local excavation contractor gets back to you, and asking for a quote costs nothing.
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