Published on August 11, 2025
The Woodlands Township is using the 8-1-1 calendar date as a timely reminder to residents: Always contact 811 before starting any digging project to have underground utilities marked. Whether you’re installing a fence or deck or breaking ground on a major construction project, contacting 811 helps prevent accidents, outages and costly repairs.
Every few minutes, an underground utility line is damaged because someone digs without calling 811. Hitting a buried line can lead to serious consequences—from disrupting essential services and causing outages to severe injuries or death.
Every digging project warrants contacting 811 by phone or online a few days before breaking ground.
This simple step can protect you, your property and your entire community. It’s free, it’s fast, and it can prevent a life-changing mistake.
Digging soon? Take these steps to stay safe and avoid unnecessary risks:
Contact 811 a few days in advance—no matter the size of your project or how well you know the property.
Plan ahead. Make your request early in the week for weekend projects.
Wait for utility lines to be marked and confirm that utilities have responded to your request before starting any digging.
Respect the marks and dig with care.
Double check that your contractor has contacted 811 if you’ve hired one. Never allow unmarked digging to begin.
To learn more about safe digging and to submit a request, visit 811beforeyoudig.com or texas811.org.