What is PA One Call?
The Pennsylvania One Call System, also known as PA 811, is a communication system that helps prevent damage to underground utility lines. It is mandated by the Pennsylvania Underground Utility Line Protection Law (Act 50 of 2017) and applies to anyone planning excavation or demolition work.
How it Works
- Pre-Excavation Notice: Any excavator (including homeowners, contractors, or municipal workers) must contact PA One Call at least 3 business days before digging. Contact can be made by dialing 8-1-1 or visiting www.paonecall.org.
- Notification Process: PA One Call notifies all utility owners in the proposed dig area. This includes the Public Works Department (e.g., water, sewer, stormwater) if the Borough owns underground lines.
- Marking Utilities: Facility owners (including municipalities) must mark the location of their underground lines using APWA color codes (e.g., red for electric, blue for water lines). Markings must be completed within 3 business days.
- Safe Digging Begins: Excavators must wait for all utilities to respond before digging. If a utility does not respond, excavators must use caution and follow PA 811 guidelines for unmarked facilities
APWA/CGA Temporary Marking Color Code
(ANSI Standard Z535.1)
- WHITE: Proposed Excavation
- PINK: Temporary Survey Markings
- RED: Electric Power Lines, Cables, Conduit and Lighting Cables
- YELLOW: Gas, Oil, Steam, Petroleum, Gaseous and Hazardous Materials
- ORANGE: Communication, Alarm, or Signal Lines, Cables, or Conduits, and Traffic Loops
- BLUE: Potable Water
- PURPLE: Reclaimed Water, Irrigation, and Slurry Lines
- GREEN: Sewers and Drain Lines
Markings on your property?
If you notice colored markings on your property, they indicate the presence of underground utilities, and the corresponding utility company is responsible for the upcoming work. Utility companies are expected to notify residents about any planned activity. The Borough receives all Pennsylvania One Call notifications and keeps a record of the Project Manager associated with each project. If you have questions about utility work within the Borough, please call 412-884-0505. We will provide you with the contact information for the Project Manager handling the work.