The exact dig number in Arkansas is 800-482-8998. This is the direct contact number for Arkansas One Call, the vital service required by law before any excavation project begins.
Understanding the Arkansas Dig Number
When planning any project that involves breaking ground on your property in Arkansas, identifying and avoiding buried utility lines is crucial for safety and legal compliance. The "dig number" refers to the dedicated hotline established for requesting professional utility line locates, ensuring you don't inadvertently strike essential infrastructure.
Why Calling Before You Dig is Essential
Calling Arkansas One Call is not just a recommendation; it's a legal obligation designed to protect property owners, excavators, and the integrity of critical utility services.
- Safety First: Striking an underground utility line can lead to severe injuries, electrocution, explosions, or even fatalities. Gas lines, electrical conduits, and water mains pose significant dangers.
- Prevent Costly Damage: Repairing damaged utility lines is expensive, and you could be held liable for the costs, service disruptions, and potential fines.
- Legal Compliance: Arkansas state law mandates that anyone planning to dig must notify Arkansas One Call at least a few business days before excavation begins. Failure to do so can result in penalties.
- Service Continuity: Damaging utilities can disrupt essential services like electricity, water, telephone, or natural gas for entire communities.
What Happens When You Call?
When you dial 800-482-8998, you are connecting with Arkansas One Call. This service acts as a central hub, notifying relevant utility companies that have buried lines in your proposed dig area. These companies then dispatch locators to mark the approximate location of their underground lines with colored paint or flags.
Utilities Covered by the Service
The Arkansas One Call system is designed to help locate a wide array of buried utilities, including:
- Electric lines: High-voltage and residential power cables.
- Water lines: Potable water and sewer lines.
- Telephone and Internet lines: Communication cables, including fiber optics.
- Natural gas lines: Highly volatile and dangerous if ruptured.
- Petroleum pipelines: Although less common on residential properties, larger pipelines are also covered.
Key Information for Your Dig Request
To ensure a smooth and accurate locate request, be prepared to provide the following details when you call Arkansas One Call:
- Your Contact Information: Name, phone number, and email.
- Dig Site Address: The exact location where you plan to dig.
- Type of Work: Describe the project (e.g., fence installation, tree planting, deck building).
- Excavation Date and Time: When you plan to start digging.
- Area of Excavation: Clearly define the specific area on the property where digging will occur.
It is generally recommended to call at least three business days before you plan to begin digging. This allows adequate time for all utility companies to mark their lines.
Arkansas One Call Contact Information
For your convenience, here is a summary of the essential contact information:
| Service | Contact Number | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas One Call | 800-482-8998 | Utility Line Locates |
| Website | 811.com | Online Request & Info |
For more detailed information and frequently asked questions about requesting utility line locates, you can visit official resources such as the Fayetteville city website. Always remember to Call 811 before you dig in Arkansas to ensure your safety and compliance.
