Before anyone digs in Gilbert, even for a short irrigation trench, Arizona law requires the buried utility lines to be marked. It's free.
Who has to call
The Arizona Corporation Commission says the law applies to homeowners and experienced contractors alike. The service is Arizona 811, called Arizona Blue Stake until 2014. Digging before lines are marked can bring fines of up to $5,000 per violation.
How long it takes
- Utilities respond as promptly as practicable, no later than two working days (A.R.S. 40-360.22).
- Digging can start only after marking is complete, or once the excavator is told no marking is needed.
- Marks are valid for 15 working days. For longer jobs, the excavator notifies the operator at least two working days before they expire.
- Large projects notify the one-call center at least 15 business days or 21 calendar days ahead.
In a Gilbert backyard
- Request marking a few days before the dig date, not the same morning.
- Keep the marks visible until the work is done; pool and pad jobs can run past three weeks.
- List anything you know was buried privately, like gas to a fire pit or power to a pool pump, and ask the contractor how they'll find it.
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
Do I have to call 811 to dig in my backyard in Gilbert?
Yes. The Arizona Corporation Commission says the requirement applies to homeowners and contractors alike, and the service is free.
Get it quoted
Fill in the form or give us a call, and a local excavation contractor will be in touch. There's no cost to ask.
If it goes to voicemail, leave your name, number and address, and tell us what you need dug or moved.