Use these clearance guidelines when working around buried facilities. Keep in mind: Existing grades can
change, and the current depth of an electric or natural gas line may be different than when originally installed.
Wisconsin digging clearance requirements
Unexposed facilities
Hand digging must be performed when working within 18 inches from each side of a buried facility.
Exposed facilities
After facilities have been exposed by hand, power digging equipment may be used up to 12 inches away, but please
exercise caution to avoid facility damage.
Trenchless technology (boring, directional drilling)
Always expose facilities to verify their depth and location when using trenchless technology.
Michigan digging clearance requirements
Unexposed facilities
Hand digging must be performed when working within
48 inches of either side of facility markings.
Exposed facilities
After facilities have been exposed by hand and exact facility location is established, power digging equipment may be used to complete excavation. Please exercise caution to avoid facility damage.
Trenchless technology (boring, directional drilling)
Always expose facilities to verify their depth and location when using trenchless technology.
