Planning a backyard project? This step is required by Ontario law

(NC) Picture this: You’re looking out your back window, imagining your dream patio. You’ve got the vision, and now you’re going to put it into motion. But before you do, did you know you’re required by law in Ontario to determine the location of the underground infrastructure outside?

Before any project that involves digging, homeowners must request a “locate” to identify underground infrastructure. This requirement applies to everything from planting a tree or installing a mailbox to building a deck or putting up a fence. The goal is simple: to prevent damage to natural gas lines and other utilities that serve your home and neighbourhood.

Underground utility lines can be much closer to the surface than most people expect. A shovel placed just a few centimetres in the wrong spot can cause damage that leads to service interruptions, costly repairs or serious safety risks. Requesting a locate shows you the approximate location of these lines so you can plan your work and dig with confidence.

In this province, locates are requested through Ontario One Call, a free public safety service that connects homeowners with local utility providers. Once you submit your request, it notifies utilities, and they’ll come and mark the location of underground infrastructure on your property. This process can take up to five business days, so it’s essential to plan ahead.

Starting a project without a locate not only puts people and property at risk but may also result in legal and financial consequences. By taking this simple, required step, you can protect your home, stay compliant with provincial regulations and avoid unnecessary delays.

Tips to keep your project on track

• Walk your yard before submitting a locate request so you can clearly identify where digging will take place.
• Mark your planned project area using flags or biodegradable paint to help the locate crews understand the scope of work.
• Avoid digging if weather conditions make locate markings hard to see; wait until markings are clear and visible.
• Keep your project plans, sketches and locate records in one place so that everything is easy to reference.
• Take photos of locate markings once they’re applied in case rain, wind, or lawn activity causes them to fade.

With a little planning, your outdoor project can move forward safely, legally and smoothly. Find more information on staying compliant and protecting your home, at enbridgegas.com/ontario.

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