How much clean dirt must be placed on top of pipes in a trench?

The requirement to place a specific amount of clean dirt on top of pipes in a trench is primarily focused on ensuring proper protection and support for the piping system. In Massachusetts, as well as in many other regions, the standard practice generally dictates that a minimum of 2 feet of clean fill should be used above the pipe.

Using this depth of dirt helps to guard against potential damage from surface loads, prevents movement of the pipe due to ground settling, and ensures that the pipe is adequately covered to avoid exposure to environmental elements. Covering the piping system with the proper amount of dirt promotes stability and can also assist in preventing corrosion.

In contrast, using less than 2 feet may not provide the necessary protection and could lead to issues such as damage from traffic or natural shifts in the soil. More than 2 feet may be excessive in many circumstances, unless specified by unique site conditions or additional local regulations. Therefore, the choice of requiring 2 feet of clean dirt strikes a balance between safety, protection, and practical construction practices.