I am trying to run water to a greenhouse in my yard. I began digging a trench to place the water line at the proper depth according to code and in the process I found a large (about 6 inch) clay pipe.

In the front of my house I have a drain that allows water from the street to drain. That drain runs east/west along my fence line. I feel reasonably confident that the clay pipe is an extension of that drain. The clay pipe runs north south along the the whole of my back yard.

In order to run the clean water to my new greenhouse I must cross over or under the clay pipe perpendicularly. I am not sure if I should go over the pipe or under? The Clay pipe is at its center is at the appropriate frost depth. So if I go over, the water line is not deep enough. Is going under it appropriate?

Thanks!

you have to check with your local authority as to the requirements for separation of water pipes and storm drains.
this is maine's requirements (first one I found). they seem a little harsh but you get the point.
[www.maine.gov]

Some random thoughts...…….. Six inch pipe for a storm drain? Wouldn't there be some type of easement recorded in town hall? Surely, if it was done by the city, it would appear on a plan. If your property suddenly starts flooding, who pays for the fix?

Thanks. This was helpful. I gave a call to my local municipality and the rules aren't so restrictive. As long as it is a storm drain no separation is needed. I'll get the local county to locate on the property to verify the storm water drain locations. Sewer company says they have no record of sewer running anywhere near where I'm digging so I'm likely in the clear.



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