Should You Get a Utility Locate Before Planting Trees?
Planting a small shrub is one thing. Installing larger trees, root balls, berms, retaining features, or extensive landscaping near the house or utility corridors is another. Digging deeper than expected can put private utilities at risk.
GroundTruth is locating-focused and inspection-only. We help reduce guesswork before digging, drilling, trenching, concrete work, or foundation-related work begins.
Why landscaping work deserves more respect
Homeowners often think of utility locates only for major contractors, but landscaping changes can still cross private lines—especially where prior owners added irrigation, lighting, drains, gas, or detached structures.
Utility protection
Avoid damaging private lines while digging planting holes or reshaping the yard.
Long-term planning
Tree placement also matters because future roots can create issues around sewer and drainage lines.
Good times to locate before landscaping
- Large trees near the house
- New privacy tree rows near likely utility corridors
- Landscaping tied to drainage work or retaining walls
- Properties with unknown prior utility additions