Find the lines 811 may not mark

811 is the required first step before excavation, but its member utilities generally mark the lines they own. Private lines beyond the meter, between buildings, across parking areas and inside commercial sites may remain unmarked. GroundScout closes that gap with a site-specific private locate.

Every project begins with the work area, visible utility features and available plans. GroundScout then uses electromagnetic locating, ground penetrating radar or both methods based on the utilities and site conditions.

What private utility locating can cover

Electric and telecom

Secondary electric, site lighting, sign feeds, security conduit, fiber, coax and data lines.

Water and gas

Private water services, irrigation, fire mains, propane lines, fuel lines and tracer-wire-equipped pipe.

Sewer and storm

Sewer laterals, septic components, storm drainage, cleanouts and other privately maintained lines.

How the locate works

Define the dig area

Provide the site address, planned work limits, excavation method and any available plans.

Trace and scan

GroundScout applies EM signals where possible and uses GPR to investigate non-conductive or uncertain targets.

Mark and document

Findings are marked in the field. Photo records, sketches and utility maps are available based on scope.

Projects that benefit from a private locate

  • Trenching, grading and excavation
  • Directional drilling and boring
  • Parking lot, roadway and site upgrades
  • Utility repairs and replacements
  • Commercial due diligence and redevelopment planning
  • Facility, campus and multi-building utility documentation

What affects the result

Utility locating is an interpretation of field signals and subsurface conditions. Congested corridors, damaged tracer wire, deep targets, reinforced surfaces, wet soil and limited access can affect results. GroundScout explains those limits on site and identifies areas where test holes or other verification may be appropriate before critical excavation.

Private locating FAQs

Is private locating the same as calling 811?

No. Call 811 first for member-owned public utilities. Private locating addresses customer-owned or site-owned lines that may fall outside the 811 ticket.

Can plastic pipe be located?

Often. Plastic pipe may be traced through tracer wire, a sonde or GPR. The best method depends on access, material and soil conditions.

Do you provide depth readings?

Depth estimates may be available when signal quality and site conditions support them. Critical excavation should still use visual verification methods.