Hitting a gas line or irrigation pipe during stump grinding is a real risk—but a preventable one. Here's everything you need to do before the grinder arrives.

Call 811 Before You Grind

811 is the national "Call Before You Dig" service. Call it (or request online at call811.com) at least 3 business days before any digging or grinding. Utility companies will come out and mark the locations of:

• Gas lines (yellow)
• Electric lines (red)
• Water mains (blue)
• Sewer lines (green)
• Communications/cable (orange)
• Proposed excavation area (white)

This service is free and required by law before excavation. Stump grinding counts as excavation for utility purposes.

What 811 Doesn't Cover

811 marks public utility lines. It does NOT mark:

• Private irrigation systems (your sprinklers)
• Landscape lighting wiring
• Low-voltage lighting
• Pet fence (invisible fence) wire
• Private electrical to a shed or detached garage
• French drains and drainage pipes

You're responsible for identifying and marking these yourself before the contractor arrives.

How to Find Private Utilities

Irrigation Systems

Most irrigation systems run at relatively shallow depth (6–12 inches). Walk the path from your irrigation controller to the nearest head, probing the soil with a thin rod if unsure. Mark the lines with contractor flags ($3 at any hardware store).

Invisible Dog Fence

Walk the perimeter of your pet's containment area and mark it with flags. These wires are typically 1–4 inches deep and are cut easily by grinding equipment.

Electrical to Outbuildings

If your shed, detached garage, or landscape lights are on a separate circuit, trace the path from your electrical panel or nearest junction point to the outbuilding. If unsure of the route, an electrician can trace it for you.

Safe Distances

Utility Type	Recommended Buffer
Gas line (public)	Do not grind within 18" of marked line
Electric (public)	Do not grind within 18" of marked line
Water main	Do not grind within 12" of marked line
Private irrigation	Mark and inform contractor; stop if unsure

What to Tell Your Contractor

Before grinding begins, walk the site with the contractor and point out:

• Any 811 marking flags and their significance
• Your irrigation system lines
• Any private electrical or lighting
• Dog fence wire if applicable

A professional contractor will adjust grinding depth or boundaries accordingly.