Wiktor Wise
Seattle has been considering burying its power lines to prevent falling tree limbs from disrupting power supply during storms. However, burying power lines is expensive, and it can be challenging to access and repair underground lines. Before digging anywhere in the state of Washington, it is mandatory to call 811 or 1-800-424-5555 at least two business days in advance to request a free underground utility locate. This helps prevent accidental damage to underground utilities and ensures safe digging.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost of burying power lines | 10-15 times the cost of above-ground lines in Washington state |
| Cost of not burying power lines | $40-60 million in projected costs from December windstorm damage |
| Cost of burying lines in Redmond, WA | $800,000 |
| Cost of burying lines in Seattle, WA | $350-$400 per foot |
| Phone number to call before digging | 811, 1-800-424-5555 |
| Website to visit before digging | Call Before You Dig |
| How early to call before digging | At least two business days |
| What to do before calling | Outline dig area with white paint |
| Consequence of not calling before digging | Fines, charges for damages, criminal convictions |
| Types of private facilities not marked by public utility companies | Heating systems for pools, electricity for an outbuilding, invisible fences, fiber optic lines, septic systems, satellite dishes |
| Tools to use when digging within two feet of the marked area | Small hand tools such as a garden trowel |
| Who to call if a locate was late, inaccurate, or incomplete | 1-888-333-WUTC (9882) or [email protected] |
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What You'll Learn
Call 811 before digging to avoid damaging electrical lines
If you're planning to dig anywhere, it's important to call 811 before you start to avoid damaging underground electrical lines. 811 is the national call-before-you-dig phone number in the US.
In Seattle, as in many other cities, there are miles of electrical lines buried underground. Burying power lines can help to prevent power outages caused by wind storms and falling tree limbs. However, it's not always possible to bury power lines, and it can be very expensive to do so. In some cases, it may cost up to 15 times more than installing above-ground power lines.
As a result, in older neighbourhoods in Seattle, some power lines may still be above ground. Additionally, transmission lines, which carry power from the generation source to neighbourhoods, often can't be buried and need to be above ground so workers can access them.
If you're planning to dig in your yard or anywhere else, it's important to call 811 first to find out if there are any underground electrical lines in the area. This will help you avoid accidentally damaging the lines, which could be dangerous and cause power outages. By calling 811, you can get information about the location of any underground utilities and plan your digging accordingly.
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The cost of burying electrical lines
Burying electrical lines is a costly endeavour, and the price can vary depending on several factors. The cost of burying electrical lines for an average home can range from $2,500 to $5,500, while the cost per foot can be anywhere between $4 and $25. The price is influenced by factors such as geography, population density, complexity of installation, and whether it is a new installation or the burial of existing lines.
In Seattle, the cost of burying power lines is particularly high. The city's utility companies are considering whether to bury more power lines, acknowledging the significant expense involved. Burying existing overhead power lines in Washington State is estimated to be around 15 times more expensive than above-ground lines, due to higher labour, material, and property costs.
The process of burying electrical lines also involves trenching and conduit installation, which adds to the overall cost. The conduit material, such as PVC or rigid conduits, can impact the price. Additionally, there may be administration or setup fees, permit costs, and charges for dealing with any obstructions encountered during digging.
For homeowners, the expenses can include electricians' fees, power company fees, conduit materials, and potential meter and panel upgrades. The cost of burying power lines for a city is significantly higher, with estimates ranging from $1 million per mile, influenced by geography and population density.
Overall, the cost of burying electrical lines is a complex and expensive undertaking, with prices varying based on numerous factors and local conditions.
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The benefits of burying electrical lines
Burying electrical lines has several advantages over traditional above-ground power lines. Firstly, underground power lines are less susceptible to wind storms and falling tree limbs, which can cause power outages. This increases the reliability of the power supply, reducing the frequency and duration of power outages. In Phoenix, for example, burying power lines eliminated extended power outages during storm season.
Secondly, burying electrical lines can improve safety. Underground wiring reduces the risk of electrical hazards, such as electrocution or fires caused by damaged or faulty above-ground power lines. Additionally, modern materials like ductile PVC provide flexibility and move with the earth, reducing the likelihood of damage compared to older, rigid electrical conduits.
Furthermore, burying electrical lines can enhance aesthetics and reduce visual clutter. Above-ground power lines and poles can obstruct views, detract from the natural landscape, and diminish the beauty of neighbourhoods and cities. Underground power lines can preserve the visual appeal of an area, contributing to a more pleasant environment for residents and visitors alike.
Lastly, underground electrical lines can free up valuable above-ground real estate. In densely populated areas, burying power lines can maximise the utilisation of limited space. This can be particularly advantageous in urban planning and development, allowing for more efficient land use and potentially increasing property values.
However, it is important to note that burying electrical lines also has some challenges and disadvantages. The process can be extremely costly, with estimates suggesting it can be up to 15 times more expensive than above-ground lines in certain states. Additionally, underground lines can be more difficult to access for repairs and maintenance, potentially resulting in longer outages while issues are being resolved. The underground real-estate market can also become congested, especially in older cities with established infrastructure.
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How to identify private facilities
If you are planning to dig in the state of Washington, it is important to first identify any underground utilities to avoid damaging them. This includes private facilities, which are not owned by utility companies and will not be marked by them. Private facilities can include heating systems for pools, electricity for outbuildings, invisible fences, fibre optic lines, septic systems, and satellite dishes.
To identify private facilities before digging, follow these steps:
- Contact a private utility locator: If you suspect that there may be private facilities underground in the area where you plan to dig, get in touch with a private utility locator service. They will be able to identify and locate these facilities for you.
- Request a utility locate: At least two business days before you plan to start digging, you must request a utility locate. You can do this by calling 811, 1-800-424-5555, or by visiting the “Call Before You Dig" website. Provide information about the location and nature of your planned dig. You will also need to outline your dig area with white paint to help utilities identify your dig area quickly and accurately.
- Receive utility location information: After submitting your request, local utility companies will be notified of your intent to dig. They will send a locator to mark the approximate location of your underground utilities, following APWA color codes. This will allow you to identify any private facilities in the area and proceed with caution.
- Proceed with caution: When digging near utility lines, always use caution. If you are digging within two feet of the marked area, use small hand tools like a garden trowel to carefully expose the utility line. Not all utilities have protective casings and may be vulnerable to damage from larger tools.
Remember, it is against the law in Washington state to dig without calling for a utility locate first. Failure to do so can result in fines, charges for damages, and even criminal convictions. By following these steps, you can help ensure the safety of yourself and others, while also avoiding costly repairs due to damage to underground utilities, including private facilities.
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How to safely dig around utility lines
It is important to take several precautions when digging around utility lines to ensure safety and avoid causing damage. Here are some detailed instructions on how to safely dig around utility lines:
First, it is crucial to identify the location of the utility lines before beginning any digging project. Contact your local 811 service or use the online request system at least two full working days in advance to have them locate and mark the utility lines on your property. This service is typically known as "Call Before You Dig" or "Dig Safe" in some regions.
Once the utility lines have been marked, you can begin the digging process. In some states, power digging is not permitted, and hand digging or non-intrusive methods are required within a certain distance of the marked utility lines. When hand digging, use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and be careful not to twist your torso when moving dirt. Instead, move your feet to turn your entire body. Alternate shoveling between your left and right sides, and take breaks to prevent fatigue.
It is important to use the right tools when digging. Avoid using sharp tools like pickaxes, mattocks, pry bars, or pointed spades, as they may damage utility lines. Instead, use a rounded or blunt-edged shovel and begin digging off to the side of the marked utility line. Use a gentle, prying motion to break away soil as you approach the line laterally.
If you encounter any utility lines, protect them by supporting them with materials that will not damage the conduit, pipe, or coating. Pay close attention to cast-iron pipelines, as they are particularly vulnerable to damage. If you encounter an unmarked line, do not assume it is inactive or abandoned. Report it immediately to the National Grid or the appropriate authorities.
Additionally, be mindful of the tolerance zone or buffer around utility lines. In most cases, this zone extends up to 24 inches around the utility line, and you should only dig outside of this area. Even a slight gouge, scrape, or dent on a utility line can cause a catastrophic break or leak, so it is crucial to take all necessary precautions.
In some cases, alternative digging methods such as soft digging or hydro excavation can be used to avoid damaging utility lines. These methods use pressurised water or air to clear dirt, and a vacuum hose to remove debris, reducing the risk of damage.
By following these instructions and staying vigilant, you can help ensure that your digging project is completed safely and without causing any damage to utility lines or putting yourself or others at risk.
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Frequently asked questions
To find buried electrical lines in Seattle, you can call 811, 1-800-424-5555, or go to Call Before You Dig at least two business days before you plan on digging. You will need to provide information on where you're planning to dig and what type of work you will be doing. You will also need to outline your dig area with white paint before calling so that utilities can quickly and accurately identify your dig area.
Affected local utility companies will be notified about your intent to dig. They will then send a locator to mark the approximate location of your underground utilities, following the APWA colour codes so you'll know what's below.
Some underground lines in your work area may not be utility-owned and are considered private facilities. Types of private facilities include heating systems for pools, electricity for an outbuilding, invisible fences, fibre optic lines, septic systems, and satellite dishes. If you think you may have private facilities, you should contact a private utility locator to identify and locate them.
When digging within two feet of the marked area, only use small hand tools such as a garden trowel to carefully expose the utility line. Keep in mind that utility installation techniques vary, and not all utilities are installed with protective casings, so always proceed with caution when digging around utility lines.
