Private Utilities

1. The contractor calls North Dakota One Call or 811 to locate underground utilities.
2. Once markings are in place, the contractor works with City staff to plan a safe installation route.
3. The contractor then verifies existing utility depths and installs the fiber line.
4. After installation, the contractor restores any disturbed sidewalks, driveways or lawns before moving on to install in other areas.

The flags and paint markings are used to represent an underground utility buried underneath. Contractors must identify and spot the existing utilities before digging to avoid damage. Various methods can be used to spot existing utilities. The contractor may choose to use a Vac Truck to vacuum a small hole over the existing utility to verify the depth and watch their drill head pass by the existing utility. Some utilities can be verified by opening manholes and measuring down to the pipes. Sometimes, a portion of the street, sidewalk and/or driveway may need to be removed to determine the exact location of an underground utility.

A specialized bore machine drills underground to install a protective conduit that will house the fiber lines. Small holes and "bore pits" are dug to guide the equipment during installation.

• Bore pits are typically dug at the end of each block or as needed.
• Vacuum trucks are used to expose utility lines and check their depth, since the locate markings show the location but not how deep they are.

Restoration of lawns, sidewalks and driveways begins as soon as the contractor finishes work in the area. Each crew must complete restoration before they can be permitted to work elsewhere.

The public utility easement is a strip of land where utility companies are allowed to install their infrastructure. This PUE is very common in all municipalities nationally. Typically, a PUE is granted at the time your development was platted into lots. This PUE allows utility companies to provide electricity, gas, phone, cable and, in this case, internet service to your property.

• Front yard easements typically extend 2 to 12 feet behind the sidewalk, towards the house. If you refer to the interactive map below, the property line is represented by the light green line along the sidewalk, while the Public Utility Easement (PUE) is shown as the dashed light blue line.
• Backyard easements are often 5 feet behind each lot line, forming a 10-foot shared space with your neighbor.
• Most neighborhoods built after 1970 have one in the front and/or back of the property.
• Structures like driveways, fences, or storage sheds built on a PUE may need to be removed or relocated by a utility to use this PUE to service your property and your neighbors.

If you see flags or paint in your yard marking underground utilities, you might want to talk to the installation crews and inform them of your private items in the public right of way or in the PUE. In most cases, they can work around them with minimal impacts to your installations.

Gateway Fiber website can be found at https://www.gatewayfiber.com/contact-us, and they have various items you can select depending on your questions.

Residents can also call 701.241.8190 to leave a detailed voice mail for City staff. Staff will investigate the concern and aim to return the call within one business day. Residents are also encouraged to email their concerns to FargoFiberInstall@FargoND.gov. If possible, please include pictures or any additional information in your email to help City staff address the issue.

Once the main fiber line has passed your home, you may be eligible for service from the provider.

• Call the number on the door hanger or contact the provider directly.
• The contractor will coordinate with you to install the final service line into your home.