---
title: "utility locate: Definition and Meaning | NPSA"
description: "A utility locate is the marking of buried utility lines before digging. In the U.S., 811 is the free national before-you-dig service."
url: https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/utility-locate
publisher: National Portable Storage Association (NPSA)
phone: "(816) 960-6552"
email: info@npsa.org
---

Site and permits

# utility locate

A utility locate is the marking of buried utility lines before digging. In the U.S., 811 is the free national before-you-dig service. A caller asks for the approximate location of buried lines to be marked with paint or flags so no one hits a line by accident.

## Why it matters

Site work for a container pad, a footing or a fence post can involve digging. The 811 site says to contact 811 or the state center a few business days before any digging. Utilities then mark their buried lines. A common mistake is to skip the call for a shallow job. Even light digging can hit a gas, power or data line. Marks show approximate locations only, so crews must dig with care near them. Setting a container on the surface usually needs no digging, but any grading or pad work might. Check state rules for exact timing.

[Read: How to prepare your site for a storage container delivery](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/guides/site-preparation-for-container-delivery)

Definition source: [811beforeyoudig.com](https://811beforeyoudig.com/)

## Related terms

[### site preparation Site preparation is the work done on a spot before a container arrives. It includes clearing the access path, checking overhead room, making the ground firm and fairly level, and sometimes adding a gravel or stone base. The goal is a safe drop and a unit that sits flat.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/site-preparation)[### gravel pad A gravel pad is a prepared base of crushed stone or gravel placed on the ground for a container to sit on. Conexwest calls a compacted gravel pad one of the most practical base options for many storage containers because it improves drainage and is generally easier to install than concrete.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/gravel-pad)[### compacted base A compacted base is a layer of soil or crushed stone that has been pressed down so it is firm and stable. It sits under a container to carry the weight and resist settling. Conexwest notes that some sites need compaction, stone, piers or professional soil review before placement.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/compacted-base)[### delivery access Delivery access is the space and route a truck needs to reach the drop spot. It includes the road, driveway, gates, turning room and overhead clearance. XCaliber Container gives a guide of about 10 feet of width on each side of the container and 13 feet of overhead clearance.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/delivery-access)[### setback A setback is the area between a property line and a building or structure where building is not allowed. Cornell's Legal Information Institute says it is measured from the property line to any structure, and it may include driveway areas or similar surface improvements. Local zoning sets the required distance.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/setback)

[All 220 terms](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary)

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