Utility color code
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Utility color codes are used for identifying existing underground utilities in construction areas with the intent of protecting them from damage during excavation.
Public utility systems are often run underground; some by the very nature of their function, others for convenience or aesthetics. Before digging, municipalities often require that the underground systems' locations be denoted and approved. Colored lines and/or flags are used to mark the location and denote the type of underground utility.
Call before you dig or Miss Utility is a service that allows construction workers to contact utility companies, who will then denote where underground utilities are located via color coding those locations. The 8-1-1 telephone number will soon be used for this purpose.
The American Public Works Association (APWA) Uniform Color Codes for temporary marking of underground utilities are listed below:
| Red | Electric power lines, cables, conduit, and lighting cables |
| Orange | Communication, alarm or signal lines, cables, or conduit |
| Yellow | Gas, oil, steam, petroleum, or gaseous material |
| Green | Sewers and drain lines |
| Blue | Potable water |
| Violet | Reclaimed water, irrigation, and slurry Lines |
| Pink | Temporary survey markings, unknown/unidentified facilities |
| White | Proposed excavation limits or route |
