Gov. Jared Polis declared April 2026 as “Dig Safely Month” in Colorado, an annual observance that this year highlights the 40th anniversary of Colorado 811, the state’s One-Call Notification System.

“Before everyone starts their warm weather projects around the house, it’s important to remember to protect yourself, your home, your neighbors and critical underground infrastructure by first contacting 811,” said Mahesh Albuquerque, director of the Division of Oil and Public Safety, in a news release.

The Underground Damage Prevention Safety Commission develops best practices and reviews alleged violations of the One-Call Law.

Colorado 811 was established in 1986 as the state’s exclusive Utility Notification Center. It serves as a central communication hub that relays locate requests from excavators to public utility owners and operators, who then mark the locations of underground lines.

State law requires notification to Colorado 811 before any excavation, including on private property, for simple projects such as planting a tree or tilling for a garden. Colorado 811 marks only public underground utilities; private utilities such as sprinkler systems must be located separately at the owner’s expense.

“Damages to underground utility lines cost the U.S. approximately $30 billion per year. The leading cause of damages and accidents is not calling the 811 service to have underground utility lines marked before excavation. Even shallow, small projects — such as planting shrubs, installing mailboxes, or building fences — can strike utility lines located just inches below the surface,” said Claudia Randall, executive director of Colorado 811, in the release.

According to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, violating the One-Call Law can draw a fine of $5,000 and up to $75,000 for each subsequent violation.

Homeowners digging on their own property are generally exempt from these civil penalties unless the Commission finds clear and convincing evidence of a violation.

According to state data, 43% of 911 center service disruptions in 2025 were caused by accidental cuts of telecommunications lines. Approximately 60% of damage to gas pipelines in Colorado is caused by excavation activities.

“Digging before knowing the location of underground pipes and cables can cause serious injuries and disrupt critical infrastructure that we rely on for telecommunications and energy,” said PUC Director Rebecca White in the release. “Dig Safely Month is a great reminder to keep yourself and the public safe before breaking ground on any project.”