Will Someone Call in My Utilities or Do I?
If you’re planning to install a new fence, you’ve probably wondered:
“Will someone call in my utilities, or do I need to do it myself?”
It’s one of the most common questions homeowners ask before fence installation—and it’s an important one.
Before any post holes are dug, underground utility lines must be located to protect your property, your neighborhood, and everyone working on the project. Fortunately, the process is simple, and in most cases, your professional fence contractor will handle it for you.
At Slagle Fence, we coordinate utility locates as part of our installation process, giving homeowners one less thing to worry about.
Here’s everything you should know before your fence project begins.
Why Utility Locates Are So Important
Digging even a small fence post hole can become dangerous if underground utilities aren’t marked beforehand.
Underground lines may include:
- Natural gas
- Electrical service
- Water lines
- Sewer lines
- Internet cables
- Fiber optic lines
- Telephone service
Accidentally striking one of these utilities can result in:
- Expensive repairs
- Service interruptions
- Project delays
- Safety hazards
- Serious injury
That’s why utility locates are required before excavation begins.
Who Calls Missouri 811?
In most cases:
If you hire Slagle Fence, we take care of contacting Missouri 811 before installation begins.
Our team schedules the utility locate request as part of your project planning, helping ensure your property is ready before construction starts.
If you’re installing a fence yourself (DIY), then you are responsible for contacting Missouri 811 before digging.
What Is Missouri 811?
Missouri 811 is a free notification service that coordinates with utility companies to mark the approximate location of underground utility lines before digging.
Once a locate request is submitted, utility companies send technicians to your property to identify buried lines using colored flags and paint.
This service is:
- Free
- Required before digging
- Designed to improve safety
- Available statewide
Whether you’re installing a fence, planting trees, or building a deck, contacting Missouri 811 is one of the first steps in any excavation project.
How Long Does Utility Marking Take?
After the locate request is submitted, utility companies typically respond within two to three business days, although timelines can vary depending on workload, weather, holidays, and the location of your property.
Because of this, fence installation isn’t usually scheduled immediately after signing a contract.
Your contractor will wait until:
- Utilities have been marked
- The property is cleared for digging
- Any permit requirements have been completed
This planning helps prevent unnecessary delays once construction begins.
What Do the Colored Flags Mean?
When technicians visit your property, you’ll notice small colored flags or painted markings.
Each color represents a different utility.
Common utility colors include:
- Red – Electric power lines
- Yellow – Natural gas, oil, or steam
- Orange – Communication, internet, and fiber optic lines
- Blue – Potable water
- Green – Sewer and drain lines
- Purple – Reclaimed water
- White – Proposed excavation area
These markings help contractors avoid damaging underground infrastructure while digging fence post holes.
Do All Utilities Get Marked?
Public utilities are generally marked through the Missouri 811 process.
However, homeowners should understand that some privately owned utility lines may not be included, such as:
- Private electric lines to sheds
- Landscape lighting wiring
- Invisible dog fence wiring
- Sprinkler systems
- Private water lines
- Pool wiring
If you have any privately installed underground systems, let your fence contractor know before work begins.
What Happens If Utilities Aren’t Marked?
Skipping utility locates can create significant problems.
Potential consequences include:
- Damaged utility lines
- Gas leaks
- Electrical hazards
- Internet outages
- Water line breaks
- Expensive repair bills
- Delayed fence installation
Repair costs can easily exceed the cost of the fence itself if underground utilities are damaged.
Can I Mark My Own Utilities?
No.
Only utility companies or their authorized locating contractors can officially identify underground public utility lines.
Homeowners should never guess where utilities are located.
Will Utility Markings Delay My Fence Project?
Usually, no.
Utility locating is simply part of the normal installation timeline.
Most professional fence companies schedule utility requests early in the planning process so that everything is ready before installation day.
Proper planning actually helps avoid delays later.
What Else Happens Before Installation?
Utility locating is just one part of preparing your project.
Before construction begins, your contractor may also:
- Verify property lines
- Confirm fence layout
- Review gate placement
- Obtain permits (when required)
- Order materials
- Schedule installation crews
These steps help ensure your fence is installed correctly the first time.
Why Professional Fence Contractors Handle Utility Locates
Hiring a professional contractor provides several advantages.
An experienced company understands:
- When utility requests should be submitted
- Local digging requirements
- Safe excavation practices
- Permit coordination
- Proper project scheduling
At Slagle Fence, we coordinate these details so homeowners don’t have to manage multiple agencies themselves.
Why Homeowners Trust Slagle Fence
Slagle Fence proudly serves homeowners throughout the Kansas City metro with professional residential and commercial fence installation.
Our services include:
- Cedar privacy fencing
- Vinyl fencing
- Ornamental steel fencing
- Chain-link fencing
- Custom gates
- Fence repairs
From your free estimate through the final walkthrough, we handle the planning, scheduling, and coordination needed for a smooth installation—including utility locates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Missouri 811 free?
Yes. Utility locating through Missouri 811 is a free service.
How far in advance should utilities be marked?
Most requests should be submitted several business days before digging begins to allow utility companies time to respond.
What if I have an invisible dog fence?
Tell your contractor before installation. Invisible dog fence wiring is generally considered a private utility and may not be marked through Missouri 811.
Can fence installation begin before utilities are marked?
No. Digging should never begin until all required utility locates have been completed.
Final Thoughts
So, will someone call in your utilities, or do you need to do it yourself?
If you hire Slagle Fence, we’ll coordinate the Missouri 811 utility locate request as part of your project planning, helping ensure your fence installation is completed safely and efficiently.
If you’re installing a fence yourself, you’ll need to contact Missouri 811 before digging.
Taking this simple step protects underground utilities, prevents costly damage, and helps keep your project on schedule.
If you’re ready to install a new fence, contact Slagle Fence today for a free estimate. We’ll handle the planning so you can enjoy a stress-free installation experience.
