Underground locate markings do not specify an exact location but an area or route with a margin of error of two feet any direction. If you need to dig to install a fence, playground equipment, landscaping, or anything else, always stay at least 2 feet away from the markings and take extra care when digging near underground utility lines.
Construction FAQs
Members must call 811 at least 2 full working days before digging so all underground utility locations can be marked with flags or paint. Following these safeguards can prevent members from digging near underground lines and risking an electrical shock. Visit Dig Safely Oregon for more information or to request locates for underground facilities.
SE prohibits any electrical equipment (poles, transformers, enclosures, pedestals, etc.) from being painted or altered. These devices require standardized labels to alert the public of safety concerns and to help SE employees easily identify them during an emergency or during required maintenance/inspections.
Non-uniform colors, covering labels, and not maintaining clearances from equipment can prolong outage restoration efforts.
SE must have access to your meter during power restoration, routine maintenance, and during our mandated inspection programs. The meter must be installed on the outside of the building according to our Electric Service Installation guidelines. Don’t put the meter base in these locations:
- Behind a locked gate.
- In a carport or other location that may be enclosed later.
- In the same area that your dog will be kept.
- Anywhere you want absolute privacy.
Most electrical equipment requires 10 feet of clearance in front and at least 3 feet on the remaining 3 sides. The front is where the equipment opens (door, lid, cover, etc.) and the front should contain a padlock.
Be sure not to obstruct the front of the equipment. Obstructions create safety risks to the personnel trying to access the equipment, delay service restoration during power outages, and cause problems during routine maintenance.
Transformers, enclosures, pedestals, and meters need to be accessed by SE lineworkers and inspectors during power restoration, routine maintenance, and during our mandated inspection programs.
Transformers and enclosures are green metal boxes, pedestals may be either subsurface or a fiberglass box. Many times, this equipment is located within public utility easements or on private property. Not every house or business has this equipment.