How to Dig a Conduit Line

Burying conduit is a good way to run an electrical wire to a shed or a garage. The conduit provides an additional layer of protection against ground moisture or mechanical damage from rocks. The depth required for buried electrical wires varies according to local building code. Consult your local building authority for the regulations for your area before beginning any work. It is also wise to employ a locating company to identify any existing buried gas lines or electrical wires before you dig.

Chalk line
Shovel
Measuring tape

Instructions

- 1
  Determine the depth required for buried electrical conduit in your area by contacting the local building authority.
- 2
  Identify any buried electrical wires, gas or water lines by employing a locating service.
- 3
  Hold one end of a chalk line at the start of the trench and have a friend hold the other end of the line at destination of the conduit. Pull the line tight and snap a chalk line along this route on the ground. Snapping a line is done by pulling it up under tension and releasing it so that it leaves a mark on the ground.
- 4
  Dig a trench in a v-shape along the chalk line with a shovel. The v-shape minimizes the chances of the trench collapsing while working. Use a measuring tape to make sure the trench is deep enough for local building code.

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