How deep does a gas pipe or a electric line have to be buried?
Cover is the amount of earth or concrete on top of the pipe or conduit. Metal gas pipe requires 12 inches of cover. The pipe needs to be factory wrapped, as well as all joints. Plastic gas and electric pipe requires 18 inches of cover and a tracer wire for gas pipe. Metal risers are required on gas lines where the run of pipe turns to the surface. The measurement of cover is from the top of the pipe or conduit to the top of the cover.
