In the state of Georgia, the Tolerance Zone is defined as 18 inches of either side of the outer edge of a buried utility line. When digging in the Tolerance Zone, you must use hand digging, potholing, soft digging, vacuum excavation methods, or pneumatic hand tools.
Report all damages: Any damage to an underground utility line requires a call to 811, the damaged facility, and to 911 if it is a hazardous material. Any impact that may lead the weakening of the line over time should be considered a damage. This includes damages to protective coating, lateral support, cathodic protection, and housing of the utility line.
Want to Request Training? Georgia 811 provides free utility damage prevention training on a variety of topics and offers sessions virtually and in-person. Click here for more information.
