FAQs
What is considered a private utility?
A private underground utility is any line on your property that is past the meter. Many customers have, for example, a single gas meter. However, they have gas lines that service multiple out buildings on their property. This can be the case for natural gas, water, cable, or electric utilities.
What is the difference between public and private utilities?
Any utility service line has two sides, public and private. The public side of a service line is considered any line within the public right of way, OR any service line up to the meter for that given utility (gas, water, electric). The private side of the utility service line is anything after the meter for that given utility.
What is Ohio811 and will they mark private utility lines?
Ohio811 is a free service provided to all residents in the state of Ohio that provides locating services for underground utilities when any excavation is planned in a specified area. Utility companies pay a subscription fee to take part in this service so that their lines are properly marked, and therefore avoidable during excavation.
In short, no. Ohio811 only marks the public side of the utilities, leaving anything on the private side of the service line unmarked and at risk for damage.
Is there a fee to mark the private side of a utility service line?
Yes, our experienced and highly qualified locators use the latest technology to locate the utilities on your property for a fee. This service fee is considerably less than the cost of repairs to a service line that has been damaged. Locating private service lines is also necessary for the safety of family, neighbors, and crews performing work.
