319.050. Exemptions from requirement to obtain information. — The provisions of sections 319.025 and 319.026 shall not apply to any utility which is repairing or replacing any of its facilities due to damage caused during an unexpected occurrence or when making an excavation at times of emergency resulting from a sudden, unexpected occurrence, and presenting a clear and imminent danger demanding immediate action to prevent or mitigate loss or damage to life, health, property or essential public services. "Unexpected occurrence" includes, but is not limited to, thunderstorms, high winds, ice or snow storms, fires, floods, earthquakes, or other soil or geologic movements, riots, accidents, water pipe breaks, vandalism or sabotage which cause damage to surface or subsurface facilities requiring immediate repair. An excavator or utility may proceed regarding such emergency, provided all reasonable precautions have been taken to protect the underground facilities. In any such case, the excavator or utility shall give notification, substantially in compliance with section 319.026, as soon as practical, and upon being notified that an emergency exists, each owner and operator of an underground facility in the area shall immediately provide all location information reasonably available to any excavator who requests the same.
