The Virginia Utility Protection Service, commonly called VA811 is the not-for-profit organization created by Virginia's utilities to protect their underground facilities. The Process • An individual or company is planning to excavate. • A call is made to 811. • Information is gathered about the excavator and the proposed dig site. • Caller verified the proposed dig site on our map to ensure the correct utilities are notified. • This information is electronically delivered to member utilities. • Member utilities mark their utility lines or employ a contract locator to perform their locates. • The locator responds to our Positive Response System and a response is sent to the excavator.