One-Call Center

One-call centers operate in every state and serve as the communication hub between excavators and utility operators. When a call or online ticket is submitted through 811, the one-call center uses mapping databases to identify which utilities have facilities in the area and sends electronic notifications to each affected operator. The utility operators then dispatch locators to mark their lines within the legally mandated response time.

Each state has one or more one-call centers, and some states share a center. Examples include JULIE in Illinois, OUPS in Ohio, Blue Stakes in Utah, and USA North and USA South in California. The centers maintain databases of utility facility maps, process millions of locate requests annually, and track compliance with response timelines.

One-call centers do not perform the actual locating or marking of utilities. Their role is purely administrative — receiving requests, distributing notifications, and maintaining records. Some centers also provide web-based ticketing systems, positive response tracking, and educational resources. Hydrovac contractors interact with one-call centers frequently and should be familiar with the specific procedures and timelines in each state where they operate.