Governor JB Pritzker has proclaimed Tuesday, August 11th, as 811 Day in Illinois to support the Illinois Commerce Commission’s (ICC) efforts to raise awareness about the need for safe digging.
Every few minutes in the US, underground utility lines are unintentionally struck by someone who failed to have utility lines marked, causing service interruptions, environmental damage, personal injury, or even death. Making the simple, free call to 811 can protect excavators, homeowners, and the integrity of Illinois’ underground utility infrastructure.
Illinois Commerce Commission Chair Doug Scott says Illinois law requires all homeowners and professional excavators to call JULIE at the statewide number, 811, to have utility lines marked before digging starts on any project—large or small. He says protect yourself, your family, and neighbors by making the call, noting this free service is incredibly affective in excavation safety and damage prevention.
To learn more about 811 or to file a written request to have utility lines marked, visit call811.com. The ICC is responsible for enforcement of the Illinois Utilities Facilities Damage Prevention Act otherwise known as the Illinois One-Call or JULIE law. Violators may face financial penalties for failing to call 811 or not marking underground facilities properly. Violations may be reported online through the ICC One-Call Education and Enforcement webpage.
