Effective utility marking generally requires access to the project area, information about planned excavation, and details about any known underground infrastructure. A site plan, construction drawing, excavation layout, or existing utility records can help locating professionals understand the scope of the work. Providing accurate project information allows the marking process to focus on areas where underground utilities need to be identified.

Depending on the site, professionals may use electromagnetic locating equipment, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), utility detection technology, GPS, and GIS mapping systems to identify underground infrastructure. After utilities are located, their positions can be transferred to the surface using appropriate utility paint, flags, stakes, or other visible markings. The exact method depends on the surface, utility type, site conditions, and project requirements.

Before utility marking services begin, the work area should be accessible and the project boundaries should be clearly identified whenever possible. Any available information about existing underground utilities should also be provided to help support the investigation. Once the required information and access are available, professional utility locators can identify and mark relevant infrastructure to support excavation, construction, site development, and utility mapping.