Q&A: How deep are the in-ground water sprinkler pipes placed?

Q. How deep are the in-ground water sprinkler pipes placed? How does one avoid hitting the plastic pipe when planting annuals and edging the gardens?

A. Irrigation lines are typically installed at a depth of 10” (to the top of the pipe) to prevent a standard 8″ shovel blade from reaching the lines. A 12” depth would be best. This is for residential installations, not commercial. The mainline (pressurized line) should be between 12” to 18” deep. This is well below a shovels depth. Here’s an expert tip: at the transition point between planter and grass areas, cover the pipe with wood then a flat rock. That way, they get hit before the pipe or any wires when digging. I hope this helps.

Lorne Haveruk, CWCM-L, CID, CIC, CGIA, CLIA, WCP

DH Water Management