Step 1
Determine the minimum depth at which the pipe needs to be buried. If the pipe is to be used in a non-traffic area where the weight of the load is not a consideration, the frost line becomes of primary importance. Refer to freeze/frost maps and determine the minimum safe depth to avoid freezing for your area of the country. For traffic areas, take into consideration the fact that 2 feet is adequate for loads up to 320,000 pounds. You can add additional depth if a layer of gravel needs to be placed beneath the PVC pipe, as in some drainage applications.
Step 2
Excavate the area for the pipe to the depth determined in Step 1.
Step 3
Add gravel for drainage (if necessary) to the trench. Lay the pipe in the trench.
Step 4
Add approximately one half the soil that was removed back into the trench. Using the handle end of a shovel or a similar tool, work the soil in so that it surrounds the pipe and there are no air pockets.
Step 5
Add water to the trench to help compact the soil, and then add the remaining soil to fill the trench. Compact with a hand or motorized tamper to complete the job.