Utility Contractors
Underground Utility Trenching Done Right
The old saying “what you can’t see can’t hurt you” definitely does not apply when it comes to underground utility installation. This is an area where integrity matters. At Rye Beach Landscaping, we’re proud to be one of the go-to utility trenching contractors for several respected commercial builders. They trust us to dig to code and protect their investment—whether we’re trenching for electrical conduit, water and sewer feeds, or gas lines.
We Dig. They Connect.
While we don’t install plumbing or electrical systems ourselves, most plumbers and electricians don’t handle the trenching—and that’s where we come in. Our excavation division takes pride in performing utility trenching to meet or exceed code. Just like the tradespeople who finish the job, we believe quality starts underground.
Dig Safe First
Every utility trench begins with the same first step: call Dig Safe. No matter the size or scope of the project, utility lines must be located before a shovel hits the ground. It’s not just smart—it’s the law.
Town Water and Sewer
Trenching for town water and sewer requires a minimum depth of four feet. These lines must run from point A to point B with very little flexibility, and it’s not uncommon for us to hit ledge that needs to be hammered out.
Once a licensed plumber installs the feed pipes, the town inspects the work before backfilling. While there’s no official code for backfill around waterlines, we always line the trench with sand to cushion and protect the pipes from stone and ledge.
Electrical Service
Trench depth for electrical conduit varies depending on the amperage of service:
110 amp service: 18 inches
220 amp service: 36 inches
Conduit must be laid on 6 inches of sand and covered with an additional 6 inches of sand Depending on the project, a concrete cap may be required. We also install electrical caution tape 12 inches below grade to comply with safety standards.
Gas Conversions
With more homeowners converting from oil to propane or natural gas, we regularly handle trenching for gas line installations.
Natural gas trench depths are set by each town and may require one or two inspections.
Propane lines (PVC-coated) must be set 18 inches below grade.
We coordinate with gas companies and inspectors to keep your project moving forward without unnecessary delays.
Protecting Your Yard and Your Pipes
No matter the utility, the bottom line is this: the piping must be protected during backfill, and the trench must be compacted in layers to prevent future settling.
When we’re done, your yard is clean, the trench cut is re-seeded, and you can be confident that what’s underground won’t cause headaches later.
Let’s Make It Easy
Utility trenching isn’t necessarily difficult—but it can come with its share of surprises, whether it’s ledge, old foundations, or permitting red tape.
If you’re connecting to town water or sewer, upgrading electrical service, or installing propane or natural gas, give Rye Beach Landscaping a call. We’ll get it done quickly, we’ll get it done right, and we’ll help coordinate with the right people to make the process smooth from start to finish.