Start with the right location! Before mapping, find and verify where the work will take place, then add any needed directions and instructions.
Why This Matters
Your map determines which utilities are notified, but locators rely on your ticket details and directions to find the exact work area.
❗ Important:
Your location details and mapping must match.
Mapping is required before a ticket can be submitted.
To avoid issues:
Ensure your location is correct before mapping
Provide clear and complete directions
Include additional details when needed
Step 1: Find Your Work Location
Use the Auto Suggest Search field to quickly find your worksite.
Enter an address, street, or intersection
Select a result from the list
💡 Pro Tip: Have an address? Start there.
Addresses typically provide the quickest search result. Just keep an eye on the map — an address may automatically convert into a work area. Always verify that the converted area is correct.
![Auto Suggest Gif.mp4 [video-to-gif output image]](https://downloads.intercomcdn.com/i/o/cea6fgzx/2456321753/03f771f5fd0f94bd4a0d288e697b/ezgif-2944ccefec19f87b.gif?expires=1794494700&signature=68ca3dbf36419c8fb98fa95bebad87155031f5a80d0640f7f468c35ad8334bb9&req=diQiEMp8nIZaWvMW1HO4za4ViBwCald2qykulONyoCdy7TwHzw9%2Bj79a5GKo%0A0wBtEnFf4m99NdwXHKs%3D%0A)
If the Search Doesn’t Return the Correct Location
If the search does not return the correct result:
Use the standard fields: County, City, Address / Street
Select from the search results displayed
Geocode Search Results reflect what mapping systems (Google or Bing) return.
⚠️ Warning:
Geocode Search Results are not always exact. Always verify the location on the map before proceeding.
Step 2: Review and Confirm the Location
Once a location is found on the map, verify that it is correct.
Confirm County, City, and Address fields are accurate
Ensure the Intersection you enter is the closest cross street to the worksite
The intersection should touch or cross the worksite
Step 3: Add Driving Directions and GPS (When Needed)
Use directions and GPS when the location:
Does not have a clear address
Cannot be easily found on the map
Requires additional clarification
GPS points are reference guides only and are not used for locating. Complete directions must be provided for each GPS point.
What to Include in Directions
A starting known intersection
Cardinal directions (N, S, E, W)
Distances (feet, yards, or miles)
Which side of the road the work is on
Distance off-road to the location
Step 4: Add Work Site Instructions
Use this section to describe where the work is taking place and how much area needs to be marked.
Include:
Where work begins
Direction of work (if linear)
Distance or coverage
Side of easement/right-of-way when applicable
Any important marking limits or boundaries
Have site-specific details such as gate codes, animals, landmarks, or access restrictions? Add those to the Additional Information field.
💡 Need a little help with the wording? We’ve got you.
Driving Directions → Help locators find the worksite
Locate Instructions → Explain where work is taking place and what needs to be marked
Location confirmed? You're ready to map.
Map Your Work Area → Draw and define your work area
Improve Mapping Accuracy → Improve visibility
Find Hard-to-Locate Work Areas → For hard-to-find locations
Need Help?
If you have any questions, contact Texas811 support at:
📞 888-776-6077