Re: minimum depth
If you are direct burying tel/data it should be "flooded or filled" and rated for direct bury. You state or local code may/should indicate specifice depths for both direct burial and in conduit. My experience is minimum 18" for direct bury and 12" for conduit. Bare in mind both also have compacted earth separation from power and gas service, again subject to local codes.
Another point to consider is how far away from the demarc or original service you are going. If the telco finds you've exceeded their distance, the customer may be charged for an off premise extension; a monthly fee!
I have fixed my share of "sod deep" installs that have been cut by roto tillers or even lawnmowers. Do it right. I offer my customers the option of doing there own digging instead of paying my hourly rate. They appreciate the offer and it saves my back for golf.
REMEMBER! CALL BEFORE YOU DIG!!!