Blog Post: Why Florida Utility Locating Is Non-Negotiable for Directional Drilling

Last week, I grabbed coffee with a directional drilling contractor in Northeast Florida. He’s a pro at boring through tough soil for pipelines, but when I mentioned Florida utility locating, he was surprised. “I didn’t know your industry was such a big deal,” he said, “or how vital it is before we drill.” That chat inspired me to explain why Florida utility locators like SafeScan Utility Locations are must-haves for your drilling projects.

The Risks of Drilling Without Utility Locating

Directional drilling minimizes surface disruption, but Florida’s underground is packed with water, gas, electric, and telecom lines. Hitting an unmarked utility can cause:

• Costly repairs: Utility strikes cost Florida contractors millions yearly, often over $50,000 per incident.

• Safety hazards: Damaging a gas or electric line risks your crew and nearby residents.

• Project delays: Unexpected hits can stall work for days, upsetting clients and budgets.

My drilling friend thought Sunshine 811 covered everything, but I explained it only marks public utilities. Private lines, common on commercial properties, need expert Florida utility locating.

How SafeScan Protects Your Project

At SafeScan Utility Locations, we use ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic tools to map all utilities, public and private. Our services include:

• Accurate utility mapping: We locate water, gas, electric, and telecom lines using APWA color codes.

• Clear deliverables: Our maps and reports guide your drilling team to avoid surprises. See our services page.

• Safety first: We align with Florida’s Sunshine 811 laws for compliant, safe projects.

Recently, we saved a Jacksonville contractor $75,000 by spotting an unmarked sewer line before drilling. That’s the SafeScan difference.

Florida’s Utility Locating Demand

Florida’s $30 billion construction industry (2024) fuels directional drilling from Miami to Jacksonville. Yet, the Common Ground Alliance notes a utility strike every 26 seconds nationwide, often from poor locating. Florida utility locating keeps your projects safe and on track.

Don’t Drill Blind—Call SafeScan

My talk with that driller showed how easy it is to overlook utility locating. Whether in Northeast Florida or beyond, SafeScan Utility Locations ensures safe drilling. Get a free quote today! Visit our contact page or call 1(800)726-6428 to schedule Florida utility locating services.