What is the minimum burial depth for water mains under roads?

The minimum burial depth for water mains under roads is generally established to prevent damage from traffic loads and to safeguard against freezing temperatures, which can compromise the integrity of the water supply. A burial depth of 3 feet is typically required in most municipal and infrastructure standards, ensuring that the water mains are protected from potential surface activities and environmental factors. This depth provides a balance between accessibility for maintenance and protection from external elements, making it a common standard in water system design.

While it is essential for the mains to be buried deep enough to avoid disturbance from vehicles and protect against freezing, greater depths may not be necessary unless specific local conditions dictate otherwise. Therefore, the standard of 3 feet is widely accepted as a safe and effective minimum depth for water mains located under roadways.