My recommendation is to bury sprinkler lines 8-12 inches. I usually try to keep a standard depth of 10" because it provides more safety if I need to do some type of ground work so I don't have to worry about hitting lines. A walk-behind rototiller generally won't go deeper than 8".
Sprinkler lines should be buried below the grass roots, and deep enough the sprinkler heads sit flush with the soil surface or slightly above grade. The depth varies depending on factors but typically ranges from eight to 12 inches.
Q: How Deep Do You Bury Sprinkler Wire? A: Like the pipes, you should bury the conduit at least 6 inches deep. Depending on your municipal code, you may be required to dig them deeper. This will protect it from shovels and tillers.
Check for a System Map
While it might seem obvious, the easiest method for quickly locating sprinkler lines is to refer to a system map. Installation companies often prepare a detailed map that shows the exact location of sprinkler heads and service lines.
To make sure you avoid the sprinkler lines when digging, it's best to use a sprinkler valve locator, which may be available in your local hardware stores. Once the batteries are placed, turn on the power. Similar to an ordinary metal detector, also perform the test to assess if the equipment is functional.
If you do not reroute your irrigation system before laying down concrete, you can accidentally block your drip lines. Any blockage to your drip lines can cause the system to malfunction.
Other secondary private utility lines can include site lighting, storm sewer lines, irrigation lines, underground storage tanks (USTs) and vent pipes. The 811 One Call system will generally not mark secondary utilities and will not provide the depths of any utilities as part of their locate.
You can also use underground wire cable locator NF-826 to find the underground sprinkler wires without digging and it's the easiest way. Let's dig a little deeper. Table of Contents: Part 1: What Is A Sprinkler Valve Box and A Sprinkler Valve.
How to Locate Underground Water Lines. Private utility locators can help you find underground water lines that are buried on a property. This involves specialized equipment. They use both ground penetrating radar and electromagnetic conductivity (EM) devices.
Using a Metal Detector
Most irrigation pipes these days are made from PVC, but if whoever installed the lines thought to install a metal tracer wire alongside or even inside the line, a metal detector would be able to locate and trace the wire.
However, as a general rule, most safety codes require burial at 24 inches. This depth provides adequate protection and minimizes the risk of damage.
A buried sprinkler head can lead to flooding and a whole mess of other problems. When you suspect your sprinkler head is buried, you will want to dig it out immediately.
Typically, water lines are buried at a depth ranging from 18 inches to 5 feet, depending on various factors such as local climate, soil conditions, and the type of water system in place.
Narrow your search area by looking at your sprinkler system map or by turning on the water, watching for flooding areas, and listening for water trickling underground. Mark areas with possible missing sprinkler heads with flags or sticks, then use your metal detector in those spots.
Average water line replacement cost
Main water line replacement costs $2,000 to $5,000 on average for labor and materials. An underground trenched water line replacement costs $50 to $200 per linear foot installed. Trenchless water line replacement costs $70 to $250 per linear foot for parts and labor.
The incoming water line usually comes through the foundation near the front side of your house. Follow this line up to the water meter. Just past the meter should be the main water shut-off valve, a red or green handle or knob.
811 will give you the approximate location of any buried utilities in your yard and mark them with flags or paint so you don't hit a line unintentionally. Calling 811 doesn't just protect you, it protects your community.
My recommendation is to bury sprinkler lines 8-12 inches. I usually try to keep a standard depth of 10" because it provides more safety if I need to do some type of ground work so I don't have to worry about hitting lines.
There is no prescribed depth that you are allowed to dig before you call 811. Regardless of whether you are installing a few small shrubs or putting in some fence posts, it is important to reach out to the authorities to make sure you do not hit anything important.
Use a Sprinkler Valve Locator
Move the receiver over the ground, listening for signals: the tool will go quiet over a sprinkler line, indicating areas to avoid, and emit a louder beep when directly over a valve, guiding your digging.
You can prevent damage to underground utilities and avoid service interruptions simply by utilizing DigAlert Direct or calling 811 two (2) working days NOT including the date of notification (4216.2(b)) prior to starting your excavation. This is a 100% free service, and more importantly-it's the law.