I agree with you, as in most cases it is. But sometimes their advice can save you from a fine for not knowing the law. One time something told me that before planting trees on my property and installing an irrigation system, I should consult with the utility company. I could only get in touch with
dominion energy customer service , which is our electricity supplier. We were advised to call the hotline 811, because the law requires that before digging, all utilities that are on the property must be marked before work can begin.