The Backfill Sand, also commonly known as Utility Sand or PG&E Sand, is a fine, screened natural sand ideal for general backfill, trench work, and utility installations. This versatile material is free of large aggregates and designed to lay easily, making it a trusted choice for underground utility line projects in Novato, electrical conduit bedding installs in Sonoma, and around gas or water pipes constructions in Napa. It's fine texture also makes it suitable for filling synthetic grass, underneath portable pools and joint filling.
 
Common Applications
Utility Trench Backfill – Widely used in Vallejo, Fairfield, and Napa for filling around water, sewer, and electrical utility lines, providing stable bedding and protection.
Pipe Bedding – Ensures even support around PVC, concrete, and metal pipes in San Rafael and Petaluma projects, preventing shifting or damage.
Leveling Base for Pavers – Popular in Sonoma, Mill Valley, and Novato for creating smooth, compactable bases under pavers, bricks, and flagstone walkways.
General Backfill & Grading – Used across Marin and Solano counties for filling low areas, regrading landscapes, and providing a stable base for light construction.
Play Areas & Sand Boxes – Suitable for non-structural recreational uses in community parks and residential backyards.
 
Material Specs & Technical Notes
Type: Natural screened utility sand (washed, fine-grain composition).
Color: dark gray to brown (color variations may occur depending on quarry source in Marin, Napa, Sonoma, and Solano counties).
Gradation: Fine-grained with minimal gravel content; typically passes No. 4 sieve.
Water Permeability: Moderate — allows drainage while maintaining compaction.
Compaction: Excellent — compacts moderatly to create a stable base.
Durability: Resistant to weathering; suitable for long-term structural and non-structural applications.
Weight Per Cubic Yard: ~2,600–2,800 lbs (1.3–1.4 tons).
Standards: Commonly supplied to meet Caltrans Section 19 (Backfill) and ASTM C33 fine aggregate specifications where applicable.
Packaging: Sold by the cubic yard, delivered in bulk via dump truck.
 
Coverage Per Ton
~ 100 sq ft 2" depth
~ 50 sq ft 4" depth
~ 35 sq ft 6" depth
~ 25 sq ft 8" depth
 
Coverage Per Cubic Yard
~ 150 sq ft 2" depth
~ 75 sq ft 4" depth
~ 50 sq ft 6" depth
~ 38 sq ft 8" depth
 
Delivery Notes
At North Bay Materials, we offer fast and reliable bulk delivery of Backfill Utility Sand across Marin, Napa, Sonoma, Solano, and Contra Costa counties. Whether you’re preparing a utility trench in Vallejo, bedding pipes in Napa, or filling around foundations in Santa Rosa, we make sure your sand arrives on time and ready for use.
Delivery Method: Loose bulk delivery by dump truck.
Minimum Order: 1 cubic yard
Maximum Per Load: Up to 17 cubic yards
Average Delivery Time: 0–3 business days
Truck Access Requirements:
Minimum 12 ft wide clearance.
Firm, level ground for safe unloading.
Special Orders: Large or repeat contractor orders can be scheduled with priority delivery windows.
From residential backfill projects to large-scale commercial site prep, our delivery team ensures that your material is delivered in a timely manner. Call/Text us or use the Quote Request Form to get shipping cost!
 
Frequently Asked Questions - Backfill Utility Sand
Q: What is the difference between utility sand and play sand?
A: Utility sand is a coarse, unscreened sand primarily used for backfilling, trench bedding, and general construction. Play sand is finer, cleaner, and specifically processed for use in playgrounds or sandboxes.
 
Q: How much sand do I need for my project?
A: Use our online Material Volume Calculator to estimate how many cubic yards you’ll need. For example, 1 cubic yard covers about 100 sq. ft. at a 3" depth.
 
Q: Can this backfill utility sand be compacted?
A: Yes, backfill utility sand compacts well, making it ideal for pipe bedding, utility trenches, and foundation backfill where stability is required.
 
Q: What areas do you deliver to?
A: We deliver to Marin, Napa, Sonoma, Solano, and Contra Costa counties, with most orders arriving within 0–3 business days.
 
Q: Is there a minimum order for delivery on backfill utility sand?
A: Yes, the minimum order is 1 cubic yard, with a maximum of up to 17 cubic yards per truckload.