Compliance & Safety
Your local expert on Minnesota’s State Statute Chapter 216D. Know the law before you dig.
What is the 48-Hour Rule?
Minnesota law requires excavators to notify Gopher State One Call (GSOC) at least 48 hours before any digging begins. This allows public utility owners time to mark their lines. However, GSOC only marks public lines up to the meter — private lines beyond that point require a private locator like JB Utility Locating.
What is White Lining?
Before any locating service arrives — whether GSOC or a private locator — it is recommended that you mark your intended dig area with white paint or stakes. This is called “white lining” and it helps locators focus on the area that matters to your project.
Why do I need a private locator?
60% of all utility lines are private and will not be marked by GSOC. This includes sprinkler lines, invisible pet fences, pool heaters, power to detached garages, private water and sewer laterals, and more. Hitting an unmarked private line can result in costly repairs, project delays, and safety hazards.
What technology do you use?
We use modern Vivax-Metrotech VLoc3-Pro utility locators and Electromagnetic (EM) methods to locate metallic lines, such as copper, steel, and tracer wires, assuring damage prevention to your property and the most complete detection possible.
What will I receive after the locate?
You’ll receive field markings (paint and flags following APWA color standards) on the ground. For an additional fee, the customer may request a GPS-verified PDF map of all detected private lines on your property.
APWA Utility Color Code Guide
Helpful Resources
Links to GSOC, industry associations, and regulatory agencies.
