Call Before You Dig (CBYD) is a program established to protect the public safety with regard to excavations near underground facilities by providing a communications link between excavators, public agencies, and public utilities. Excavation damage to underground utility facilities can cause fires and explosions, injuries, deaths, and significant disruptions to public utility service.
Excavators must call CBYD prior to digging, and then CBYD will notify all utilities that might be in the area. Utilities will then locate their pipes and cables using paint and stakes, so excavators can conduct their work without causing damage. The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) oversees the program, and may assess civil penalties in the thousands of dollars for any party who violates the Statutes and Regulations.