Every new house needs utility lines brought in, and older lots sometimes need them replaced: water, sewer, power, irrigation, conduit for communications.
Per-foot prices
| Trench | HomeAdvisor, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Standard | $5 to $12 per foot |
| Large or difficult | $13 to $40 per foot |
| 100 feet | $1,300 to $4,000 |
| Average job | $950 |
Depth
HomeAdvisor gives about 24 inches for water supply lines and about 36 inches for drainage pipe.
Licensing and 811
- Florida's underground utility and excavation contractor license covers main sewer, water and storm systems and the lines from them to an individual meter (F.S. 489.105). Plumbing contractors' scope includes the excavation incidental to their work.
- Sunshine 811 needs at least 2 full business days' notice, and utilities mark within 24 inches of either side of their lines. See Sunshine 811.
Sources
- HomeAdvisor: How much does trenching cost? (updated June 19, 2026)
- Florida Statutes 489.105 (2025): Definitions (contractor categories)
- Florida Statutes 556.105 (2025): Procedures (notice to Sunshine 811)
Reviewed October 20, 2026. Rules, prices and contacts change, so check the source before relying on it.
Questions and answers
How much does trenching cost per foot?
HomeAdvisor's 2026 guide lists $5 to $12 per foot for standard trenching.
Get your trench quoted
Use the form or give us a call, and an excavation contractor who covers northwest Orange County reaches out. The quote is free.
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