Section 1: Drilling Preparation
Drilling Considerations
Consider the following items before starting core/borehole drilling operations:
- Access
- Utility clearance
- Traffic control
- Core/borehole drill equipment
- Drill rig
- Site preparation
- Barge work
- Borehole backfilling
Access
Coordinate drilling locations and work times with TxDOT. Ensure that operations are confined to Right of Way (ROW) and/or permission to enter private property has been secured before drilling.
Utility Clearance
Clear all locations proposed for drilling for utilities before the drilling team/crew mobilizes to the field. When utilities are present, ensure their exact locations are clearly marked by the utility company.
Call 1-800-545-6005 for utility clearance or utilize the Texas811 website to submit tickets. Obtain utility clearance at least 48 hours and no more than 14 days before starting the drilling and maintain current utility contact numbers during drilling operations.
Traffic Control
Provide traffic control in accordance with Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices or Traffic Division Traffic Control Plan (TCP) standards for approval prior to starting the drilling operation.