NC H247

Expands definition of "nonmechanized equipment" to include soft dig technologies (air or water pressure excavation with vacuum extraction) in addition to hand tools

Changes excavation notice expiration from 15 working days to 28 calendar days from the work start date, and requires operators to mark facilities within 3 working days prior to that start date rather than after notification

Requires excavators to use nonmechanized equipment within a 24-inch circumference around oil pipelines, gas transmission lines, or electric transmission lines unless the operator consents in writing and has a representative on site

Creates a rebuttable presumption that excavators exercised due care when operators fail to respond to locate requests or improperly mark facilities, shifting burden to operators to prove negligence by clear and convincing evidence

Establishes that damage claims must be adjudicated in North Carolina courts in the county where the damage occurred, and adds new enforcement procedures including informal conferences and a 30-day window for written violation determinations