When installing a water service pipe in a trench with a sewer pipe, what is the minimum distance required between them?

The minimum distance required between a water service pipe and a sewer pipe is 12 inches to prevent contamination of the potable water supply. This separation is crucial because if the sewer line were to leak or if there were a failure, contaminants could migrate into the water supply, posing health risks. Regulatory codes, such as those from the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and the International Plumbing Code (IPC), establish this distance to ensure safety and maintain the integrity of drinking water systems.

Having a separation distance of 12 inches acts as a buffer zone, reducing the risk of accidental cross-contamination even if there is settling or shifting of the ground in the trench. This standard is a vital safety measure that plumbing professionals must adhere to when installing these utility lines to protect public health.