Everett, WA – With nicer weather returning and many people tackling more outdoor projects, Snohomish County Public Utility District reminds its customers to plan ahead to prevent accidentally hitting an underground utility line when digging.

PUD customers should call the Underground Location Center (Dial-Dig) at 1-800-424-5555 at least two working days ahead of time before starting a digging project, such as landscaping, remodeling, fencing, etc., of more than 12 inches deep. The center will work to provide the locations of lines that serve power, gas, water, sewer and/or telephone utilities that are located along the right of way of a resident’s property.

The PUD owns and maintains underground services on private property for residential single family homes and will mark lines up to customers’ meters. Apartment buildings, schools and mobile home parks may need to retain a private locator, depending on meter locations. Private locators are available to provide this service for a fee.

Dial-Dig is a free service, which is required by law. Severed utility cables or water lines not only inconvenience people, they are expensive to repair. If you dig in and interrupt power or water service, it is restored at your cost. Dial-Dig can be reached toll-free at 1-800-424-5555.