San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), a subsidiary of Sempra (NYSE: SRE), a leading U.S. utility growth business, is recognizing National 811 Day by highlighting continued safe-digging progress and encouraging Californians to keep using the practices that help prevent damage to critical underground utility infrastructure.
In 2025, SDG&E received more than 210,000 requests to locate and mark underground utility lines across its service territory, one of the highest levels of participation on record. The number of requests has climbed roughly 70% since 2016, reflecting growing public awareness of the 811 program.
The increase in 811 participation coincides with a 17% reduction in dig-in damages since 2022, underscoring the effectiveness of public awareness efforts, safe excavation practices and collaboration among homeowners, contractors, local agencies and utilities.
The sustained increase in 811 requests also reflects the ongoing operational work required to locate and mark underground infrastructure across an active service territory, reinforcing the importance of continued public awareness, field response and damage-prevention programs.
“More people are calling 811 before they dig, and that’s making a real difference,” said Kevin Geraghty, SDG&E’s chief operating and safety officer. “It’s a simple, free step that protects families, neighbors and the crews who serve our communities. Every dig-in is preventable.”
While 252 excavation damages were recorded in 2025, increased participation in the 811 program has coincided with fewer dig-in damages across SDG&E's service territory since 2022. The trend underscores the value of continued public awareness and safe digging practices.
National 811 Day, observed annually on Aug. 11, serves as a reminder to contact 811 at least two business days before digging, excluding the day of notification. After a request is submitted, utility operators will mark the approximate location of underground utility lines at no cost, helping prevent injuries, property damage, service disruptions and costly repairs and fines.
The company’s progress in damage prevention reflects its broader commitment to safety, operational excellence and the responsible management of critical energy infrastructure across the region.
Whether planting trees, installing fences, building decks, landscaping or undertaking larger construction projects, SDG&E encourages everyone to make calling 811 their first step before breaking ground.
Know Before You Dig
Before starting any digging project:
- Contact 811 or submit a request online.
- Wait for underground utility lines to be marked.
- Confirm all utility operators have responded.
- Use only hand tools within 24 inches of each marked utility line to determine the exact locations of all lines before using any power excavation equipment in the area.
For more information about safe digging practices, visit sdge.com/811.