Call Before You Dig
Fill out this online form (Go to "Continue as Guest) at least 2 business days, but no more than 14 business days, before the scheduled dig. You can also call us at (907) 772-4430 or stop by our office at 303 S. Second Street.
Why Call?
- It's free – Contacting Public Works 2-15 business days before starting your project to have your utility lines marked is free. However, if you damage your utility line without calling, you will be financially responsible for the damage as well as a fine of up to $1,000.
- It's easy – Just fill out the online form or call (907)772-4430 to reach the Petersburg Borough Public Works Department.
- It's the law – Alaska Statute 42.30.400 requires anyone digging, to contact the underground facility at least 2 business days before starting your work.
What Happens After the Call?
Keep the ticket number you receive from the online form. This is your proof you have submitted a request. After you submit your request for the locate(s), a ticket order is sent to all Petersburg Borough utilities as well as GCI & AP&T.
Check the status of your request here.
The utilities will be painting or flagging their utility lines on the ground. They have 2 business days to complete your request. So please, plan ahead! Depending on the location of your dig, site each notified utility will mark in a water-soluble paint in their designated color:
Note: Water and Sewer lines on private property are not marked as they are considered private lines and are not installed by your water or sewer departments. Other examples of private lines include an electric line to a detached garage or shop, underground sprinkler systems, security systems, and walkway lights or lamp posts. If utilities on private property are desired to be located, time & materials plus 15% will be invoiced.
These marks are good for 30 days if the site conditions have not changed. If the markings are destroyed, just call us, and you can get your utility lines remarked. However, you will need to wait an additional 2 business days for the markings. If you can, maintain the marks until you are done with your project.
At the Dig Site
- After the utilities have been marked, you will be issued a “Dig Permit.” Once you have it in hand, you can begin your project. The Dig Permit can be emailed or faxed to you or picked up at the Public Works office at 303 S. Second Street.
- Remember, hand dig only within 24 inches of the markings. If you need to dig closer to the marks, hand tools may be used with caution. Do not use any power tools, i.e., post-hole augers or trenchers.
- If you expose a utility line, it is your responsibility to protect it. If there is any damage of any kind, call the affected utility so they can come out to inspect and repair the damage.
