Calling 811 (or submitting a request online) at least a couple of business days before digging is a legal requirement in New York State, not just a best practice, and it applies to sidewalk work that involves any excavation below the surface, not just larger street openings. Utilities then send crews to mark gas, electric, water, and telecom lines with colored flags or paint so a contractor can avoid a costly, dangerous strike. Skipping this step risks utility damage, service outages, and personal liability well beyond the cost of a normal sidewalk repair.
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