Electrical Trenching & Underground Conduit

Electrical Trenching in Toronto

Getting power underground in a Toronto backyard involves more than just digging a ditch. There are depth requirements, conduit type requirements, Ontario One Call (utility locates), and ESA permit obligations depending on the scope. We handle all of it — so you don't have to manage a patchwork of contractors or figure out what the code requires.

Common Reasons to Trench Underground Electrical

• Detached garage — power for lighting, outlets, EV charger, or a subpanel.
• Backyard shed or workshop — dedicated circuits for tools and lighting.
• Hot tub or spa — running 240V power to the back or side of the property.
• Pool or landscape lighting — low-voltage or line-voltage outdoor circuits.
• Outdoor EV charger — when the charger location isn't directly accessible from inside.
• Backyard structure or addition — any new building needs a proper feed.
• Replacing overhead wires — some homeowners prefer underground to overhead drops.

Conduit Type and Depth Requirements

Ontario Electrical Safety Code specifies minimum burial depths depending on what's above the conduit. Standard areas require a minimum 600mm (about 24 inches) of cover. Under driveways and vehicle-traffic areas, the depth increases. Rigid conduit (PVC Schedule 40 or 80) is typically used for underground runs, with proper glued joints and appropriate sweep elbows at entry and exit points. We select the right conduit for each job.

Ontario One Call — Utility Locates

Before any digging on a Toronto property, we call Ontario One Call (811) to request utility locates. This marks the location of gas lines, hydro, telecom, and water below ground. It's legally required, and it protects against hitting a gas or power line during the dig. We handle this as part of every trenching job.

How the Work Is Done

1. 1Plan the route — shortest path while avoiding utilities, tree roots, and structures.
2. 2Call Ontario One Call (811) to locate and mark buried utilities before any digging.
3. 3Trench to the required depth — minimum 600mm for conduit under normal areas, deeper under driveways.
4. 4Install rigid or flexible conduit appropriate for the soil and load conditions.
5. 5Pull wire through conduit — properly sized for the load and run length.
6. 6Backfill trench in layers, compacting to minimize settling.
7. 7Install warning tape or marking tape above conduit as required.
8. 8ESA permit pulled and inspection completed before backfill where required.

Frequently Asked Questions

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