Changes to Missouri law are taking effect to enhance excavation safety and protect underground infrastructure. Senate Bill 133 updates the state’s 811 system to align with technological advancements and the needs of excavators and facility owners.
Under the new rules, anyone planning to dig must contact Missouri 811 at least two business days before beginning a project and complete the work within 21 days of the start date. If the project continues beyond that period, a new 811 ticket is required—even if the original utility marks are still visible.
The law also requires excavators to notify Missouri 811 if they discover an unmarked underground facility, whether or not it has been damaged.
If damage to a natural gas facility occurs, workers should:
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Stop all excavation activities immediately.
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Evacuate the area and keep others away.
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Call 911 to report the incident and provide details about the location and nature of the damage.
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Notify Missouri 811 about the damage.
Missouri 811 services are available at no cost, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Residents are encouraged to have underground lines freshly marked before every digging project, even if lines were marked for previous work. More information is available at Missouri-811.org.
