Checking for Underground Cables and Pipes Before Digging Fence Post Holes
Digging a few holes for fence posts seems like a simple weekend job. Under the surface, though, there may be power cables, gas pipes, water mains and phone lines. Hitting one can be dangerous and expensive. A little checking before you pick up the post hole digger can save a lot of trouble.
Australia has a free national service that helps with this. It is called Before You Dig Australia, often shortened to BYDA. This guide explains how the service works, what the plans do and do not show and how to dig safely once you have them. It applies to fences, gates, garden beds and any other job that involves breaking ground.