Who is responsible for locating utilities on a private property?

The private property owner is typically responsible for locating utilities on their own property. This responsibility stems from the fact that owners have the best knowledge of their property’s layout, including any existing utility lines, as they are often the ones who have made arrangements for utility services or have firsthand experience with utility placements. Additionally, property owners may have access to records or documents that outline the locations of utilities, such as plans made by previous contractors or utility companies.

In general, while utility companies are responsible for maintaining and documenting the placement of their lines, the obligation for locating those lines on private property often lies with the property owner. This ensures that any construction or landscaping work conducted on the premises does not inadvertently damage these utilities, which could lead to service disruptions, safety hazards, or other complications. Local government regulations may provide guidelines on how to properly handle utility locating, but the primary responsibility remains with the property owner, especially for private developments.