Do I need to mark water, gas and power lines before grinding stumps?

Yes, we recommend that you mark all water, gas and power lines before the stump grinding process.

Many utilities are only buried inches deep. A proper stump grinding requires grinding below the surface, so if there are lines, there’s a high probability they’ll get hit.

Thankfully, having your utility lines marked is a very easy process. All you have to do is call 811.

811 is a 100% free service. You don’t have to pay for the call. You don’t have to pay for the service.

When you call 811, your call will be directed to a local call center.

In North Carolina, you can also enter a online ticket. Just visit NC811.org to get started.

After you call or submit your online ticket with 811, different people representing the different utilities will show up at your property and mark the lines.

North Carolina state law requires “tolerance zones” where machines cannot be used to dig. This means no digging can take place within 24 inches of each side of marked utility lines. If your stump falls within this line, companies cannot grind into the ground in that area.

If you have a sprinkler system, we also recommend that you mark the lines and heads of those as well.

Do not hesitate to Call 811 if you’re planning on doing any kind of digging on your property.