Who's Digging in My Yard?

Google Fiber, AT&T, Spectrum, and Verizon often install new communications infrastructure throughout town. This work expands access to high-speed internet and related services. (Construction in your area doesn't guarantee immediate access to new services; it may take months or longer.)

Construction shouldn't disrupt your utilities, but it happens. If it does, contact your utility provider immediately. If you believe there is a risk to life safety, call 911.

If you have irrigation pipes in the right-of-way, you should flag them to avoid damage.

Homeowners also have certain maintenance responsibilities for private sewer pipes and laterals. For more information about Orange Water and Sewer Authority's (OWASA) policy related to maintenance, email info@owasa.org.

Contact Information

If you have a complaint or issue with fiber installation on your property, call these numbers:

• Google Fiber: 877-454-6959
• AT&T: 877-245-6660
• Spectrum: 833-487-4772
• Verizon: 800-837-4966
• Town of Chapel Hill: Emergency Management Coordinator Tanner Deisch - tdeisch@chapelhillnc.gov | 919-969-4896

Why They're Working in Your Yard

Public agencies and utility providers can work within the public right-of-way, which often extends into what looks like private property. Some properties also include utility easements, which allow crews to work on your land. Easements are listed in your deed and closing documents.

View your Parcel Boundaries

What to Know about this Type of Utility Work

• Schedules vary for this kind of work. Typically, contractors will place door hangers on homes before work begins - usually within two weeks of construction. You might also see painted utility marking or flags on the ground indicating work is coming soon. Check the individual utility websites for the latest:
  • AT&T availability
  • Google Fiber
  • Spectrum
  • Verizon

• Contractors are required to call 811 to have utilities marked before digging. Colors indicate different utilities, and paint wears off in 6-8 weeks.
• Fiber providers use contractors and subcontractors whose vehicles must be marked. Workers must also wear identifying clothing, including hardhats and reflective vests. 

• These contractors must restore landscaping to original condition, including grass and shrubs. If they don't, work directly with the contractor first. 
  • If the contractor doesn't respond or you don't know who it is, contact us at 919-969-4896 or utilityissues@chapelhlilnc.gov

• State law prevents us from requiring fiber companies to coordinate installing fiber at the same time.