How much of the structure needs to be below ground?

[waskillywabbit]

I'm trying to help a co-worker determine how deep in the ground to put the following: (5)-8" SCH STD Pipe x 30'-0" long. These are going to be poles for a netting to keep softballs from flying out of the field into the highway...crash! I'm sure there has to be a standard for stuff like this somewhere, or at least a rule of thumb.

I was thinking like a 24" diamter hole 6 feet deep and fill it up with concrete would do it, but might be overkill, so I figured someone here would know. Thanks.

Brian

http://www.mcabeeconstruction.com

Opinions expressed are my own and are not those of the company.

 

[NickE]

From what I understand from my laborer days each area will have its own code and requirements for depth below ground for poles and uprights. (IIRC in Chelsea MI we sank the posts for a deck 48" deep. Had to do with frost.
)

 

[mshimko]

Three recommendations:
1. Check local codes,
2. Repost this question on the "civil/environmental engineering - other topocs" forum,
3. Deeper is better.

 

[ornerynorsk]

6 feet for your application is great plenty. Most wooden utility poles are sunk to about 6 feet, and they resist great stresses from wind, wire tension, etc.

 

[FredGarvin]

Usually the biggest driving factor is where your frost line is. If you don't go deep enough the poles will heave. Like was said before...take the time to check your local codes.

 

[waskillywabbit]

This isn't an "official" job, no codes involved here, it's some poles at a softball field to hold some netting to keep cars from eating softballs in the parking lot and on the road...thanks for the input.



Brian

http://www.mcabeeconstruction.com

Opinions expressed are my own and are not those of the company.

 

[griffengm]

waskillywabbit,
I would contact someone who constructs billboards or highway signs in your locale as I think the netting is going to present wind load issues greater than electric lines. If you plan on taking these down after every use you may be alright at the recommended depths but....
Good luck.

Griffy

 

[IRstuff]

Unless it is private property and there is no public access, there probably is a local code that covers it.

What if your poles fell out and beaned someone or a kid? And then, their lawyers found out that you not only violated the code, but didn't even bother to check?

TTFN