Can You Put A Normal Trampoline In The Ground?

Is It Possible to Put a Normal Trampoline in the Ground?

Obstacles Involved in Putting a Normal Trampoline in the Ground

Converting a normal trampoline to an in-ground version may seem like a daunting task, and it’s important to remember that most outdoor projects have their challenges.

Here are the main obstacles involved:

How to Put a Normal Trampoline in the Ground

Typically a professional or trained home enthusiast can install a trampoline in the ground within a day or 2. The cost varies based on whether or not you opt to go the professional installation route.

If you choose to install it yourself, prices start at around $500 for the equipment and can exceed $1500 with expert-level assistance.

Here are the following steps for installing a normal trampoline in the ground:

We’ll talk more about the specifics of each below.

Notify Your City of Digging Plans

First and most importantly, call your city to let them know you’re going to be digging a rather large hole in your yard.

Sometimes you need their approval, and they’ll be able to advise on which areas to avoid- if there’s underground piping or lines you don’t know about, etc.

Map Out the Hole

This requires some serious mathematics and exact measurements.

The easiest way to plan for a circular trampoline is to find the circumference and mark for the hole that way. Although less common, if you have a square or rectangular-shaped trampoline, you can use a measuring tape.

You want to leave about 3 inches around the perimeter to allow for drainage or space for the sump pump.

Check the Weather and Start Digging

You want to make sure it’s not going to rain, as this will put a damper on your digging efforts (literally).

Digging the hole can be done with a tractor and by hand with a shovel. Additionally, you may be able to hire a contractor to do this part of the job for you.

Just make sure the forecast shows clear blue skies before you start!

Confirm the Integrity of the Soil

Sometimes the deeper you dig, the less stable the subsoil layers are.

If you don’t have a firm infrastructure that will hold long-term, consider adding a retaining wall. While this takes more time and adds cost to the project, it will be worth it in the long run.

Add a Sump Pump or Some Form of Drainage

Like we mentioned above, you need some form of drainage for your in-ground trampoline. Without this, water will collect on top and damage it, or air will be trapped beneath the surface.

Installing a sump pump or simple surface drainage pump is the perfect solution, although it can get complex. For this reason, specifically, we recommend hiring a professional.

Just make sure your hole is able to accommodate the pipes that need to be installed.

Insert Your Trampoline

Once your hole is dug, and the drainage system is in place, you can lower your trampoline in the hole.

Make sure it’s centered, and there’s an even amount of space around the perimeter. The goal is to have the trampoline slightly elevated (an inch or so above the hole) to make backfilling easier and allow for a bit of soil compression.

Fill the Hole with Soil

Next, you need to throw the soil that was removed back in!

This will create stability for the trampoline and make it easier for the grass to grow back around it.

Add Padding or Landscaping Around the Perimeter

This step is optional.

Some parents wish to add some padding around the border of the trampoline. It prevents injury and finishes off the look of the space. Just keep in mind that you still need to make sure there’s room for air and water to escape.

Additionally, you can replant grass or add additional plants to make the trampoline blend better with your yard!

What Type of Trampoline Is Safer?

This is really an in-ground versus above-ground question.

Technically speaking, in-ground trampolines are a little bit safer due to the fact that they’re closer to the surface of your yard. That way, if a child does fall, there’s not a long way down.

However, if you jump high in the air, there’s still a pretty big chance you get hurt. If you want an additional layer of safety, you can always add a net to reduce the risk of injury.

In Summary

To wrap things up, it’s possible to put a normal trampoline in the ground with proper preparation.

In order to keep your trampoline (and your kids) safe, you’ll need to make sure that there is clearance for any pipes or other drainage equipment, along with ensuring there’s an even amount of space around the perimeter. This will help with backfilling and give your grass a chance to grow around the trampoline frame.

If you feel unprepared to complete this job alone, never hesitate to call in a contractor!