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Map Your Work Area

How to map your work area, choose a geometry type, and draw the area where work will take place.

T
Written by Tiffany Harmon

Time to put it on the map! Use the map tools to draw the exact area where work will take place. Mapping is required before submitting a ticket.


Why Mapping Matters

Your mapped area determines which utilities are notified, so it must match your location details and instructions.


Watch: How to Map Your Work Area

Want a quick visual walkthrough of how to use the map? Watch this short video to see the tools in action and learn how to create accurate work areas.

Prefer step-by-step instructions? Follow the steps below.

❗ Important:

Inaccurate mapping can result in:

  • Missing utilities being notified

  • Delayed or incomplete locates

Always ensure your mapped area fully covers the work site. Mapping is required before a ticket can be submitted.


Step 1: Select Work Area Mode

From the map toolbar, select: Work Area


Step 2: Choose a Shape (Geometry Type)

Select the shape that best matches your work area:

Line

  • Ideal for smaller roads or alleyways

  • Notifies utilities within 50 feet on either side of the drawn line

Area

  • Best for addresses, general job sites, or irregular shapes

  • Notifies utilities within the full boundary

Circle

  • Use when work is focused around a single point or small area

  • Uses a radius to define coverage

  • Notifies utilities within the full boundary


Step 3: Draw Your Work Area

For Line or Area

Desktop Instructions

  • Right-click to start

  • Right-click add points

  • Double right-click to finish

Mobile or Tablet Instructions

  • Tap once to start

  • Tap to add points

  • Double-tap to finish

Circle Type

Desktop Instructions

  • Right-click once at the center point

  • Drag to set radius

  • Right-click to finish

Mobile or Tablet Instructions

  • Tap the center point

  • Tap the radius endpoint

💡 Pro Tip: Get a closer look!

Zoom in before finishing your map to make sure the entire work area is covered.


Convert Search Results into a Work Area

If you searched for an address or road, you may be able to convert the search result directly into a work area.

  • Converts the selected search result into your official work area

  • Can save time for simple locations or addresses

❗ Important:

Always verify that the converted area fully covers the work site before saving.

This tool may not work well for roads with multiple breaks or segments.


Refine as You Go

If you need to adjust your map or improve accuracy, you may:

  • Switch map layers for better visibility

  • Use measurement tools to confirm distances

  • Add GPS points for reference

These tools can be used at any time while mapping and do not need to be used in a specific order.


👀 Before You Finish Mapping

  • Your mapped area must match your ticket details and directions exactly

  • Use measurement tools to confirm distances in your directions

  • Always ensure the entire work area is covered

  • Break tickets up when working:


Next Steps


Need Help?

If you have any questions, contact Texas811 support at:

📞 888-776-6077

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