Hiring an excavation contractor in Oregon
Gradeline lists 1,103 excavating and site work contractors in Oregon across 34 counties. This guide covers the Oregon rules that affect a dig: licensing, frost depth and 811 notice through Oregon 811.
What to know before you hire in Oregon
4.7★
Know what a good rating looks like here
Oregon contractors average 4.7 stars on Google. Shortlist crews at 4.5 or better with a solid review count (251 qualify), and treat anything under 4.0 as a red flag.
Yes
Check the state license
Oregon requires a contractor license (OR CCB license), issued by Oregon Construction Contractor Board. Get the number in writing before you sign. Verify a license
24 in
Footings go below the frost line
Frost reaches about 24 inches in Oregon. Any bid for footings, foundations, or buried lines should dig at least that deep. If the depth is not written in the quote, ask.
2 days
Utilities get marked before digging
Oregon law requires 2 business days notice to Oregon 811 before any digging. Ask whether your contractor files the request, and plan the start date around the wait.
39%
Most listed contractors have no website
Only 39% of listed Oregon contractors run their own site. Judge them on reviews, photos, and years in business rather than web polish, and get at least three written quotes.
Get quotes from Oregon contractors in one request.
Get free quotesArea-specific FAQ
How far in advance do I need to call before digging in Oregon?
At least 2 working days. Oregon 811 takes locate requests statewide and has underground utilities marked before any excavation. Hitting an unmarked gas or power line can injure the crew and lead to costly repairs.
Do excavation contractors need to be licensed in Oregon?
Yes. Oregon requires a state contractor license (OR CCB license) for this work, regulated by Oregon Construction Contractor Board. Look up the license number before you sign a contract.
How deep do footings need to be in Oregon?
In Oregon, footings typically need to extend below the frost line, which is around 24 inches here. A local contractor will confirm the code requirement for your site.
When is the best time of year to dig in Oregon?
Most of the year works in Oregon. Occasional winter freezes can firm up the top few inches of soil, but the 24-inch frost line clears quickly.
