Starting January 1, Minnesota excavators will be able to provide electronic white lining in place of physical markings, provided they deliver the same level of information.
Whether you’re submitting tickets, locating facilities, or planning digs, understanding these changes will improve coordination and communication in the field.
Electronic White Lining – How Does It Work?
Beginning January 1, 2026, excavators will have the option to provide electronic white markings if they offer the same level of detail as physical marks. This flexibility will make it easier to share precise excavation boundaries and reduce confusion on site.
ITIC users will be able to provide an electronic white mark in two ways:
- Use the Radius, Route, Property Excavation or Street Tools to auto-generate marking instructions; or
- Manually draw the polygon with the “Other” tool and provide additional information.
If using one of the four tools with auto instructions, operators and locators in many cases will have enough information to do their job.
If using the “Other” tool, more information may be needed. Excavators are encouraged to provide additional information up front, which may include a detailed map showing:
- References to visible field features (such as trees, signs, etc.); and
- A precise area of excavation with a closed boundary matching the area mapped in ITIC to ensure the right facility operators are notified.
While electronic white lining is an option, Minnesota law allows facility operators to require physical markings in the field. Even if you submit electronic markings, be prepared to physically mark the area if requested.
For more information on electronic white lining, please visit www.mncga.com for a series of suggested practices in the field.
How Does This Work in ITIC?
Here’s what to expect:
When the new law takes effect, excavators may choose between physical or electronic white lining when submitting a ticket.
Here’s how that will look:
- When filing a ticket, users will be asked if the area of excavation is marked physically or electronically.
- If choosing electronic marks, users can:
- Use the Radius, Street, Property Excavation, or Route tools to auto-generate instructions; or
- Use the “other” tool and provide additional information such as a detailed, closed-boundary map with clear field references.
- Physical Marks:
- Mark the excavation area on site, as required now.
Regardless of the method, excavators must define the precise area of excavation: no more, no less. Accurate marking instructions help operators locate their facilities quickly and safely.
These changes aim to:
- Provide clearer, more consistent information for facility operators and locators;
- Improve locator efficiency;
- Reduce damages to underground utilities; and
- Increase safety for excavation crews and the surrounding community.
By using these new tools and following best practices, excavators can streamline the locate request process while meeting Minnesota’s legal requirements.