You are required by law to inform the utility companies through the Pennsylvania One Call system of any type of work involving the movement of earth with powered equipment, but we advice this for all tree planting, even if by hand. Avoid planting over utilities.
*If you are aware of any privately owned underground lines on the property, please contact a private line locating company to have the lines marked prior to any excavation work.
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💡 PHS hired contractors do the PA One Call for all pit cuts in Philadelphia; you are responsible for everywhere else
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Making a PA One Call
- 1 PA One Call ticket/work request per property, or block if multiple street tree sites
- Make the call 3-10 business days before digging for an 'Excavation' (planting)
- State at beginning you are with "PHS Tree Tenders" and calling for excavation. This service is free for Tree Tenders. If asked for a tax exempt number, use 75236609. (If the operator states there is a cost, their manager should be able to confirm that the service is free for Tree Tenders).
- Questions you will be asked -
- street address?
- the depth and extent? (digging up to 18” deep)
- is the site marked in white? (yes)
- nearest intersection? (have both cross street names on hand)
- Mark the site in white marking paint. The paint is helpful for the utility locators and planters to know digging locations, especially on large properties. PHS/PPR paints the site for permitted Philadelphia street trees and pits.