Fence posts, septic trenches, a pool or a pad: anyone digging in Arizona has to get buried utility lines marked first. It costs nothing.
Arizona's rules
- The requirement covers homeowners and experienced contractors alike, per the Arizona Corporation Commission.
- Arizona 811, known as Arizona Blue Stake until 2014, takes the request; utilities mark their lines for free.
- Utilities respond no later than two working days (A.R.S. 40-360.22), and digging waits until marking is done.
- Marks are valid for 15 working days. Large projects give notice at least 15 business days or 21 calendar days ahead.
- Digging before lines are marked can bring a fine of up to $5,000 per violation.
On rural property
- Long trenches can take longer than the 15-working-day life of the marks; plan to refresh them.
- If you know of wells, septic lines or private power runs on the property, tell the contractor before the dig.
- Pipes and utility lines are among the things the Arizona Geological Survey says earth fissures can break, so note any fissures near planned lines.
Sources
- Arizona Corporation Commission, Office of Pipeline Safety: Underground Facilities Law
- Arizona Revised Statutes 40-360.22: Excavations; determining location of underground facilities
- Arizona Geological Survey: Earth Fissures & Subsidence
Reviewed October 20, 2026. Rules, prices and contacts change, so check the source before relying on it.
Questions and answers
Is Arizona 811 free?
Yes. The Arizona Corporation Commission says utilities mark their lines at no charge.
Get it quoted
Give us a call or send the form, and a contractor who works in western Pinal County will get back to you. Quotes are free.
On voicemail, leave your name, number, where the property is and the job you have in mind.