Louisiana 811 Question

Probe rod like was said is possible. But be careful, you can probe straight through some of these lines so don’t be trying to drive it in with a hammer.
Your contractors take responsibility for these utilities. So make sure that they carry up to date insurance. The truth of the matter is as long as you’ve called 811, even if you break a line, most utilities will fix for free. However, more than likely your contractor will have to fix your water service if on the property side of the meter. Also, you’ll be at the mercy of the parish or individual company to wait on repairs. To find the water look for fire hydrants. Typically the water is on one side of the street. The hydrant is usually about 2-3 on the property side of the main but this varies by neighborhood. However the water line is supposed to be buried a minimum of 3’. Again shouldn’t be an issue. Your service however can and will be very shallow. So you just kind of have to trace it from your meter. Same for your gas.

To sum up you really should only have to worry about your service lines for water and gas, which are typically less than 1” so a little more difficult to find with a probing rod. especially in hard ground. Good luck

Your contractor should call 811 to get his company added to the ticket. You should be able to dig with a sharpshooter shovel in the sensitive areas to reduce the chances of damaging anything

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It also appears the water department does not participate in the 811 program. Does anyone know if I need to contact Jefferson Parish Water Dept to get someone out. I am sure the sewage line is more than 2 feet below surface, but I don't want these companies to just assume.

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Water companies definitely participate, however, they will only mark to your meter. As with all utilities, they're only responsible to their meter. Everything between the meter and your house is on you. Sewer laterals are your responsibility as well and the only sewer that will get marked is the main.