Trenching Solutions for Nevada County

Sierra Excavation provides specialized trenching and underground utility excavation services across Nevada City, Grass Valley, and Western Nevada County. Proper subterranean infrastructure is the critical backbone of any residential or commercial property. Whether you are connecting new services to a home site or repairing existing infrastructure, our team ensures every trench is dug accurately, safely, and to exact depth specifications.

Navigating the underground conditions of the Sierra Nevada foothills requires specialized equipment and local knowledge. High rock concentration, clay soil, and roots present significant obstacles for utility lines and drainage channels. By partnering with a licensed and experienced local contractor, you guarantee that your septic systems, utility trenches, and subsurface drainage networks are excavated cleanly, properly bedded, and fully compliant with county building codes.

A septic tank drain line is being installed in a trench

Our Core Services

Septic System Excavation

We perform precise site excavation for septic tanks and dispersal/leach fields, working directly alongside sanitation engineers to ensure proper slope, depth, and soil conditions.

Water & Electrical Trenching

We excavate clean, uniform trenches for underground water supply lines, electrical conduits, and communications cabling, protecting lines from root intrusion and frost depth.

Subsurface Drainage Systems

We design and dig custom trenches for French drains and curtain drains, intercepting groundwater and directing runoff away from building foundations and driveways.

Backfilling & Site Compaction

After utility installation and inspection, we properly backfill, compact, and grade the area to prevent future settling and restore your site’s surface contours.




    A new culvert is being installed

    Why Choose Sierra Excavation?

    Rick Tesene began Sierra Excavation, Inc. with a focus on precision, safety, and accountability (Lic #1043210). Underground work demands careful execution to protect surrounding structures and existing utilities. With decades of local experience, we handle complex underground projects efficiently while minimizing disruption to your landscape.

    Whether you need a short utility connection or complete site drainage and septic excavation, Rick provides direct oversight and site assessments tailored to Western Nevada County terrain.

    Ready to start your underground utility or drainage project?

    Contact Rick at Sierra Excavation today to discuss your project requirements and receive a professional assessment for your property.

    Serving Nevada County & Beyond

    Sierra Excavation provides expert trenching services throughout the Sierra Foothills.

    Don’t see your town? Reach out anyway—we often take on projects in nearby areas.