HB517 Summary

• Establishes procedures for excavators conducting complex or large projects to provide notice to underground facility operators at least 5 working days before commencing work, including pre-excavation planning meetings and working agreements.

• Defines "complex or large project" as excavation activity lasting beyond 40 working days, involving 5+ simultaneous work crews, or requiring multiple locate requests within the same geographic area.

• Removes sunset clauses from the Underground Damage Prevention Program and modifies enforcement provisions, including civil penalty structures ranging from $500 to $10,000 depending on violation severity.

• Creates the Underground Damage Prevention Authority Board composed of 17 stakeholder representatives with authority to review complaints, assess penalties, and oversee the One-Call Notification System.

• Effective date: January 1, 2026.