What is JULIE, Inc.?
The Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators (JULIE) is a not-for-profit corporation that provides contractors, excavators, homeowners, and others who may be disturbing the earth, with a free service through a single toll-free phone number, 811, to call for the locating and marking of underground utility facilities.
Do I have to call JULIE?
Yes. According to state law, anyone planning an outdoor project that requires digging, regardless of the depth or the size of the project, must call JULIE first. Today, more utility members that supply power, gas, water and telecommunications are delivering these services underground.
How do I call JULIE?
According to state law, anyone planning an outdoor project that requires any type of excavation, regardless of depth, should call JULIE first by dialing 811. For more information: Homeowner's Guide to Calling JULIE
Is JULIE a utility company and/or government agency?
No, JULIE is a not-for-profit corporation. JULIE does not own nor mark any facilities. The mission of the organization is to prevent damages to underground utilities, the environment and property, reduce service interruptions and costly repairs, and save lives.
How much does it cost to use JULIE? When does the call center have operators available?
The call to JULIE and service provided by utility members are free to the excavator. Call center operators are available to receive and process calls 24 hours a day, 365 days per year.
I see colored flags and/or paint marks on the ground and in the yard. What do they mean?
The marks are made by utility companies to identify the location of their underground facilities with paint and/or flags at the excavation site. These marks are placed in response to a request for utility locates before digging begins. the location of their underground facilities with paint and/or flags at the excavation site. APWA Color Code - Marking Colors:
| Flag Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Yellow | Gas, Oil, Petroleum |
| Green | Sewer |
| Red | Electric |
| Blue | Water |
| Orange | Communication, Telephone, TV |
| Purple | Reclaimed Water |
| White | Proposed Excavation (Black when snow is present) |
| Pink | Temporary Survey |
For example, yellow paint marks or flags indicate that a gas main or service line is buried below (within 18" on either side of the mark or flag).
Will JULIE tell me the specific location or depth of the public utilities?
No. JULIE does not obtain or have information on the specific location or depth of underground facilities for any members. Depth variation can be caused by human interference, weather or other circumstances.
If I am the subcontractor on a job, do I have to get a locate request ticket or will the general contractor's ticket protect me?
According to state law, the person, as defined in the act, actually doing the digging is required to call JULIE with the locate request information at least 48 hours (two working days) in advance of the start of the excavation, not the homeowner or company for whom the work is being done. The general contractor's ticket only applies to its company. In addition, the general contractor should only request a ticket if its company is planning to actually dig at the site.
