Call Before You Dig – Utility Locates
Planning to plant a tree, install a fence, deck or pool, or start a landscaping project in Burlington? Before breaking ground, you must request a free underground utility locate through Ontario Dig Authority (formerly Ontario One Call).
Utility locates
Utility locates help identify buried infrastructure, including natural gas pipelines, electrical cables, telecommunications lines, and water and sewer services.
Knowing what's underground before you dig helps prevent injuries, service disruptions and costly damage.
How to request a utility locate
Ontario Dig Authority coordinates locate requests between property owners, contractors and underground infrastructure owners. The service is free and required by law for projects involving excavation.
Follow these three steps before starting your project:
1. Submit your locate request
Complete an online locate request through Ontario Dig Authority at least five business days before digging for a single-address project. Larger projects or those involving multiple addresses require at least 10 business days' notice.
Homeowners must submit standard locate requests online.
2. Wait for your utility locates
Ontario Dig Authority notifies the underground infrastructure owners in your project area.
Utility owners or their representatives will identify and mark affected underground infrastructure using paint, flags or stakes, or provide confirmation that their infrastructure is not affected.
Do not begin digging until all notified infrastructure owners have responded and you have reviewed your locate documentation.
3. Dig safely
Follow all instructions provided with your utility locates, respect the markings and keep them visible throughout your project.
If your project's location or excavation requirements change, you must request a new locate.
What about private underground utilities?
Ontario Dig Authority coordinates locates for public underground infrastructure. Privately owned services, such as gas lines to backyard barbecues, electrical connections to sheds or private septic systems, may not be included.
Property owners are responsible for arranging additional private locates when required.
Why utility locates are important
Damaging underground infrastructure can result in serious injuries, interruptions to essential services, expensive repairs and potential financial or legal consequences.
Whether you're completing the work yourself or hiring a contractor, make sure all required utility locates have been obtained before excavation begins.
For more information, visit Ontario Dig Authority to learn about utility locates, submission requirements and safe digging practices.