Click before you dig: Why safe digging matters for every outdoor project
May 26, 2026
Spring and summer are the perfect seasons for outdoor projects. Whether you’re planting trees, installing a fence, building a deck, putting in a pool, or starting a new garden, there’s one important step you should never skip before digging: requesting a utility locate.
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that underground utility lines may be buried beneath their property - including electrical cables, natural gas lines, water pipes, and telecommunications infrastructure. Striking one of these buried services can lead to serious injury, service interruptions, costly repairs, and project delays.
That’s why Ontario residents are encouraged to “Click Before You Dig” by contacting Ontario One Call before starting any digging project.
What projects require a locate?
If your project involves digging into the ground, you likely need a locate. This includes:
- Planting trees or shrubs
- Installing a fence
- Building a deck
- Digging for a pool or hot tub
- Creating a new garden or landscaping feature
- Installing a mailbox or signpost
- Excavating for a shed or addition
- Digging trenches for drainage or electrical work
Even smaller projects can pose a risk if underground infrastructure is nearby. Underground lines are not always buried as deep as you might expect, and their locations can vary depending on the property and neighbourhood.
Why safe digging is so important
Damaging underground infrastructure can have serious consequences. According to Ontario One Call, striking buried utilities can result in:
- Electrical shock or electrocution
- Gas leaks, fires, or explosions
- Flooding or sewer damage
- Internet and telecommunications outages
- Expensive repairs and delays
- Community-wide service disruptions
In addition to safety risks, requesting locates before digging is required by law under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act.
How the “Click Before You Dig” process works
Requesting a locate is free and easy.
Step 1:
Plan your project
Determine where you’ll be digging and the approximate size of the work area.
Step 2:
Request a locate
Contact Ontario One Call at least five business days before digging. You can submit your request online 24/7.
Step 3:
Wait for utilities to be marked
Ontario One Call will notify utility companies, including Hydro Ottawa, so they can identify and mark underground infrastructure in your work area. You may see colour-coded paint or flags used to indicate buried utilities.
Step 4:
Dig carefully
Once locates are complete, follow all instructions provided and respect the markings. If you are working near buried electrical infrastructure, dig carefully and maintain safe distances from marked utilities.
Don’t forget about private infrastructure
A locate request identifies public utilities, but homeowners may also have privately owned underground infrastructure on their property that won’t automatically be marked.
Examples can include:
- Electrical lines to detached garages or sheds
- Gas lines to BBQs or pool heaters
- Irrigation systems
- Security or landscape lighting cables
- Septic systems and private sewer lines
If your project may affect private infrastructure, additional private locates may be required.
Safety starts before the shovel hits the ground
No matter the size of the project, taking a few minutes to request a locate can help protect you, your family, your neighbours, and critical community infrastructure.
Before you dig, remember:
- Always request a locate before starting outdoor projects
- Wait until all locates are complete
- Respect utility markings and instructions
- Never assume it’s safe to dig
Learn more about safe digging and request your locate through Ontario One Call or visit Hydro Ottawa’s Safe Digging page.