How to landscape with shallow utility line?

KR1

Hello,

I have a backyard with limited access to it (mainly through the house!). The grass is in poor condition, and I was going to do something to improve the soil, but I am limited by digging with two things:

1. From looking at a review of the utility lines, there is a telecoms line running along the back and side fence which is only 0.2m buried. There is a power main along the other side fence which is 0.6m buried. Can I plant trees over such shallow lines?

2. From looking at the grass, when I tried to remove some of it, I noticed there is a layer of plastic that seems to be embedded in with the turf?! (see photos)

Any ideas where to begin? I first need good draining soil for anything I think but not sure how to move forwards given the above limitations?

KR

MitchellMc

You’re right to pause and think this through first, @KR1, because both shallow services and what you’ve uncovered under the lawn will influence what’s realistic and safe to do.

With services buried that shallow, planting trees directly over or very close to them is not recommended. Even small to medium trees can develop roots that seek out moisture and will happily follow service trenches. Over time this can cause damage to conduits, restrict access for future repairs, or force roots to be cut if the service ever needs work, which is bad for the tree. In areas where those lines run, it’s best to stick to shallow-rooted options such as turf, groundcovers, low shrubs, or raised garden beds that sit above ground level rather than digging down. If you really want trees, positioning them well away from the service runs or using large raised planters is the safer approach.

The plastic and mesh you’ve found under the turf suggests the area has been previously “built up” rather than properly prepared. This is often done to suppress weeds or stabilise gravel, but it creates poor drainage and stops roots from getting into decent soil. That layer will definitely be contributing to the struggling grass. If you’re planning to improve drainage and soil health, that plastic and mesh will need to come out in any area you want to rework properly. Unfortunately, there’s no real workaround for that, because leaving it in place will always limit drainage and root development.

Given your limited access and the services, a practical way forward is to think in zones. Areas directly over services can be kept as lawn, paved, or turned into shallow garden beds with improved topsoil only. Areas without services underneath are where you can dig deeper, remove the plastic, improve drainage, and potentially plant larger shrubs or small trees. If removing all the plastic isn’t feasible straight away, you could start by cutting and removing it in sections as you rework the space over time.

For drainage, once the plastic is removed, improving the existing soil with organic matter and possibly a sandy loam top-up will make a big difference without needing deep excavation. Raised beds are also a very good solution in your situation, as they avoid underground services entirely while giving you full control over soil quality.

Starting small and working around the constraints you’ve identified is the safest and least frustrating path forward.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell