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Colorado 811 Marks 40 Years of Promoting Safe Digging

On August 11 each year, Colorado 811 rallies communities across the state to emphasize the critical importance of contacting 811 before any digging activities. This year, 2026, is particularly notable as it celebrates four decades of dedicated service as Colorado's Utility Notification Center.

Founded in 1986, Colorado 811 has played a pivotal role in safeguarding people, property, and the overall integrity of the state's vital underground utility structure. It began as a centralized notification service and has evolved into a comprehensive partner in damage prevention, serving homeowners, contractors, excavators, locators, and public agencies throughout Colorado.

The nationwide launch of the 811 service in 2005 has made it easier for both homeowners and contractors to request public utility markings before embarking on any digging project. Colorado law mandates that individuals must contact 811 at least three business days prior to excavating to ensure underground utility lines are duly marked, which minimizes the risk of accidents and service interruptions.

Whether planting a tree, setting up a fence, or constructing a deck, contacting 811 is essential. Property owners can either visit colorado811.org or call 811 to ensure a safe digging process. Proper utility marking prevents liability and encourages safety, as utility companies indicate lines using paint and flags. Furthermore, it’s crucial to hand dig within 18 inches of utility markings.

Claudia Randall, the Executive Director of Colorado 811, underlines the importance of these services: "Damage to public underground utility lines costs the U.S. billions annually, primarily due to the failure of individuals to contact 811 beforehand. Digging safely is a collective responsibility; it’s free, fast, and a legal requirement. As we celebrate 40 years of our commitment, we continue to prioritize community safety by promoting the necessity of contacting 811 before any digging action."

In honor of 811 Day and its monumental anniversary, Colorado 811 is dedicated to expanding statewide outreach, education, and damage prevention resources. Activities take place around August 11, featuring the organization’s Education & Damage Prevention Liaisons who will be in communities promoting a safe digging message, sharing resources, and facilitating awareness regarding the crucial role that 811 plays in maintaining public safety and protecting underground assets.

Also, in 2026, Colorado 811 is making strides in its mission to prevent damage with the successful rollout of the new Exactix Ticketing System. Officially launched on January 30, 2026, this system enhances the legacy ticketing process, offering users a faster, simpler, and more accurate method for managing locate requests. Additionally, it includes improved customer service and self-service capabilities, allowing for greater control over locate tickets from inception to completion.

Further supporting its educational endeavors, Colorado 811 is preparing for the 2026 Damage Prevention Summit & Expo, scheduled for October 16, 2026, at the Denver Marriott Tech Center. This pivotal event will gather excavators, pipeline operators, and utility professionals, fostering the exchange of practical tools and knowledge related to safety practices.

For further information on safe digging practices, access to the Exactix Ticketing System, and upcoming events, please visit colorado811.org.

About Colorado 811

Established in 1986, Colorado 811 is the state’s sole Utility Notification Center. As a nonprofit organization, it provides free access to public utility location services, safeguarding Colorado’s critical underground infrastructure. Joining the team in shielding communities and ensuring uninterrupted essential services throughout its 40-year journey, Colorado 811 continues to stand at the forefront of damage prevention. For more information, visit colorado811.org.

About Our Services

Colorado 811 serves as a communication facilitator between utility owners and parties planning to dig. While it doesn’t mark and locate utilities, it relays requests for accurate locate services, significantly contributing to protecting Colorado’s infrastructure and public safety through dedicated training, outreach, and educational initiatives.