Utility vault

A utility vault is an underground room providing access to subterranean public utility equipment, such as valves for water or natural gas pipes, or switchgear for electrical or telecommunications equipment.

A vault is often accessible directly from a street, sidewalk or other outdoor space, thereby distinct from a basement of a building.

Such vaults are considered confined spaces and can be hazardous to enter.

Large utility vaults are similar to mechanical or electrical rooms in design and content.

This article related to a type of room in a building is a stub.