Kentucky 811 makes it simple to check the status of your locate requests by using a tool called “positive response.” Positive response is a way for utility companies to communicate the status of their locate markings with excavators like you in real time.
After submitting a locate request and waiting the two full working days, you should confirm that all utility operators have provided a positive response status. There are multiple ways to check positive response status:
Confirmation Email Link – Click the link included on the ticket in your confirmation email. You will also receive an email when the excavation start date and time passes showing the current positive response status for all notified member utilities.
Ticket Search – Use the Kentucky 811 Ticket Search & Status to search for any locate request using the ticket number. After searching, scroll down to the “members notified” section.
Kentucky 811 App – Use the Kentucky 811 app to access Ticket Search & Status while on the go.
If a member utility participates in positive response, you’ll see their current status. If they do not participate by responding back to the Kentucky 811 with a status, you’ll see “Does not participate.” They are still required to do the locate, but it won’t be confirmed in the system.
You are responsible for contacting non-members and having any private lines on at your dig site marked. Click here to learn more about private utilities.
About Positive Response
Positive response is an important tool that allows Kentucky 811 member utilities to communicate the status (“Marked,” “Clear,” etc.) of a locate request directly with the excavator. This full-circle communication increases clarity and reduces the chance of a damage occurring, and each stakeholder plays an important role in the positive response loop.
Although Kentucky law does not mandate positive response, it’s supported by Kentucky 811 as a free tool that we encourage all member utilities, locators, and excavators to participate in to decrease the chance of damages.
Statuses to Be Aware Of
“Does Not Participate” Status
If a member utility does not participate in positive response by responding back to the Kentucky 811 with a status, you’ll see “Does not participate.” They are still required to do the locate, but it won’t be confirmed in the system.
No Response from Member Utility
If a member utility has not provided a positive response status within the timeframe, you can contact Kentucky 811 to submit a second notice.
