Does 811 Locate Everything? Public vs. Private Lines
Calling 811 is required in Texas, but it only covers public lines. Here is what 811 will not mark on your property — and why it matters.
Before any dig in Texas, calling 811 is the law — and it is free. But a common and costly misunderstanding is assuming the 811 locate covers every line on your property. It does not. Understanding the gap between public and private locating is the difference between a smooth project and an expensive, dangerous strike.
What 811 actually marks
When you submit a locate request, 811 notifies the utility companies that own public infrastructure in your area. Their locators come out and mark the lines they own — typically from the main in the street or easement up to your meter.
- Public electric service to the meter
- Gas service line to the meter
- Public water main to the meter
- Telecom and cable to the demarcation point
What 811 will NOT mark
Everything past the meter is considered private and is the property owner’s responsibility. On rural Parker County properties, this can be the majority of the lines on site.
- Gas lines running to a shop, barn, generator, or grill
- Electric to a detached garage, well pump, or yard lights
- Irrigation and sprinkler systems
- Private water wells and water lines to outbuildings
- Septic systems and lateral lines
- Pool equipment and low-voltage lines
Why this matters in Parker County
Much of Parker County is acreage with wells, septic, and outbuildings — exactly the kind of private infrastructure 811 does not touch. A private locate fills that gap so you have a complete picture before the shovel or auger goes in the ground.
The rule of thumb: call 811 for the public lines, then hire a private locator for everything beyond the meter.