Trenching and Utility Installation in Portland, Oregon
Underground utilities need to be installed right — correct depth, proper bedding, and code-compliant backfill. A&N Construction and Excavation provides professional trenching services for water lines, sewer lines, electrical conduit, gas lines, irrigation systems, and downspout connections across the Portland metro area.
Our Trenching Services
Water Line Trenching
We trench for new water service lines, water main connections, and yard hydrant installations. Standard depth is 12-18 inches below the frost line.
Sewer Line Trenching
We dig sewer line trenches for new connections and replacements, maintaining proper slope for gravity flow per Portland's plumbing code.
Electrical Trenching
We trench for underground electrical conduit runs from the utility connection to your panel, outbuildings, or landscape lighting.
Gas Line Trenching
We provide trenching for new gas line installations to homes, garages, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and pool heaters.
Irrigation Trenching
We trench for sprinkler systems, drip irrigation mainlines, and control wiring.
Conduit Trenching
We trench for any conduit installation — communication lines, fiber optic, low-voltage wiring, and data cables.
Downspout Trenching
We trench and install downspout drain lines that carry rainwater away from your foundation to the street, storm drain, or dry well.
Our Trenching Process
- 1
Utility Locates
We call Oregon 811 and have all existing underground utilities marked before digging. This is required by law and prevents dangerous and costly utility strikes.
- 2
Trench Excavation
We dig the trench to the depth and width required by code and your contractor's specifications, using trenchers or mini-excavators depending on the job.
- 3
Bedding
We install bedding material (typically sand or pea gravel) at the bottom of the trench to protect the pipe or conduit.
- 4
Pipe/Conduit Placement
We coordinate with your plumber, electrician, or utility contractor for the installation of the actual pipe or conduit (or handle it ourselves for simple installations).
- 5
Backfill and Compaction
We backfill the trench in lifts, compacting each layer to prevent settling. We use tracer tape or warning tape above the utility as required by code.
- 6
Surface Restoration
We restore the surface — whether it's replacing sod, regrading a yard, or prepping for concrete or asphalt patching.
When You Need Trenching
You're building a new home and need utility connections brought to the site. Your water or sewer line needs to be replaced. You're adding an ADU, shop, or outbuilding that needs its own utility connections. You want to install an irrigation system. You're connecting downspouts to an underground drain system. You're running electrical to a detached garage, shop, or outdoor living area.
Trenching Cost in Portland
Trenching costs depend on the length and depth of the trench, soil conditions, the number of utilities being installed, and surface restoration requirements. Simple irrigation or conduit trenching starts around $5-10 per linear foot. Water and sewer line trenching typically runs $15-30 per linear foot depending on depth and soil. We provide per-project estimates based on your specific requirements.
Why Choose A&N for Trenching
Utility trenching has zero margin for error — a misplaced trench or incorrect depth can mean failed inspections, expensive rework, or dangerous conditions. We trench to exact specifications, coordinate with all trades, and ensure code compliance. We also own compact trenching equipment for tight-access jobs in established yards and between structures.
Trenching & Utilities Service Areas
We serve the entire Portland, Oregon metro area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep do utility trenches need to be in Portland?
Will trenching damage my lawn or landscaping?
Do you install the actual pipe and conduit, or just dig the trench?
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A&N Construction and Excavation · CCB #268549