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Inviting the soothing sounds of water into your yard is a great – and peaceful – way to enhance your outdoor living experience. If you’re thinking of adding a garden pond with moving water (whether it’s from a small fountain, stream or waterfall) in your yard, you’ll need two essential elements: water and power. Recirculating pump ponds require a GFCI-protected 115-volt A.C. circuit and either an extension of an existing line or an added circuit. You should plan to lay PVC water pipe to the site from an existing outdoor faucet. All electrical and plumbing work requires care in planning and compliance with building codes, and depending on where you live and the size of your project, a permit may be required from your local government agency. Prepare for your permit application by gathering your garden plan, drafting tape, tracing paper, a ruler and pencils, then take the steps shown in the following pictures and described in their captions.
Pond Utility Plan - Step 1 Make a photocopy of your garden plan, then fasten it to a work surface with drafting tape. Secure tracing paper over it before beginning your drawing. Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Pond Utility Plan - Step 2 Carefully draw the perimeter of the future pond, locating it precisely and using exact measurements to scale. Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Pond Utility Plan - Step 3 Mark a boundary outside of the pond, spaced 3 feet from it. Check with your local government agency, but most electrical codes require that wiring be located at least 30 inches from water features. Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Pond Utility Plan - Step 4 Route the path of direct-burial electrical wiring or conduit in straight runs, avoiding existing structures, trees, paving and any underground preexisting utilities. Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Pond Utility Plan - Step 5 Route your water supply line in a separate trench. Remember to always maintain a separation distance from the electrical line at least 30 inches wide. (Again, check with your local government agency for proper codes in your area.) Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Pond Utility Plan - Step 6 Refer to the equipment labels for pumps, lighting and other equipment. Allow a 25 percent reserve in wattage, voltage and amperage for your future power needs on the circuit. Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
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| Warnings |
- Whether your water feature is big or small, always watch your children and pets around water! Although a water garden is not a swimming pool, curious minds can’t help themselves, and accidents can happen. Always consider safety when planning a water feature, and follow all local building and safety codes. Using fencing, railings or plant barriers is one way to ensure safety, but there’s no substitute for adult supervision!
- Before you start installing your garden pond, check with your town or village for electrical wiring codes, property line information and depth-of-pond safety requirements so you can build your pond within the letter of the law.
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| Tips |
- Plan to include paths and easy access between plants that will allow for the care and cleaning of your water feature. Provide easy access to electrical outlets, hose bibs and faucets, or install new utility lines to service all areas of your garden.
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| Share |
- Come to The Garden Party and share your garden pond with the rest of our Learn2Grow community! Join the Water Gardening Group and post some pictures of your water feature, create a blog, or learn from our experts or other home gardeners some more great tips, ideas or advice.
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