Electrical wire burial depth depends on the type of wire and installation conditions, but the general rule is:
- Standard electrical wiring (direct burial) should be buried at least 24 inches deep.
- If the electrical wire is run inside conduit, it can be buried at a minimum depth of 18 inches.
- Low-voltage wiring such as landscape lighting requires only 6 inches of burial.
- Under driveways or concrete slabs, burial depth may be reduced to 18 inches due to added protection.
- In regions with heavy frost, increasing burial depth to 30 inches or more may be necessary to prevent frost damage.
These guidelines align with the National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 300.5, which sets minimum burial depths for safety and protection from physical damage.
In summary:
Wiring Type| Minimum Burial Depth
---|---
Standard electrical wiring (direct burial)| 24 inches
Electrical wiring in conduit| 18 inches
Low-voltage wiring| 6 inches
Under driveways/slabs (in conduit)| 18 inches
Areas with heavy frost| 30 inches or more (recommended)
Consult local codes and regulations to ensure compliance, as they can vary by region.
