According to NFPA 70, direct buried cables must be:

According to NFPA 70, direct buried cables must be arranged so as to prevent damage when the ground settles. This guideline ensures that the installation of these cables remains safe and functional over time, particularly considering natural ground movements that can occur due to settling, shifting, or other environmental factors. By properly arranging the cables, they can withstand these changes without risk of damage, which is crucial for maintaining a reliable and secure electrical system.

The other options do not align with the code's intent or requirements for direct burial installations. For instance, while protective barriers can be beneficial in certain situations, they are not universally mandated for all buried cables. Laying cables flat on the surface would contradict the purpose of burying them and could expose them to damage. Lastly, intersecting with other utility lines may create complications and does not contribute to the integrity or safety of the direct buried installation.