A fence has always been the best option to create privacy for your home and secure your yard. But, digging multiple holes for fence posts without knowing what's below can result in injury, expense and penalties.

Fence installation always requires a call to 811. Installing a fence requires digging multiple holes in areas likely to contain underground utility lines such as along streets, right-of-ways or property lines. But, marked lines show those who dig the approximate location of underground lines and help prevent undesired consequences. Smart digging is no accident: always call 811 before you dig.

Meanwhile, you can consider other factors in planning your new fence while you are waiting for your underground utility lines to be marked. For instance, if you decide to use wood for your project, exposed elements can be coated with paint, stain or preservative to protect from weathering. Posts or any part touching the ground should be pressure-treated with a preservative or a decay-resistant species such as cedar. Or, if you decide to use metal, apply an appropriate primer and rust-resistant topcoat.

Homeowners often make risky assumptions about whether or not they should get their utility lines marked, but every digging job requires a call, especially installing a fence. One easy phone call to 811 gets your underground utility lines marked for free.

Remember, know what's below. Always call before you dig.